Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions After Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest statement follow after he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had fueled considerable talk of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has become notably awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with strong performances in their final matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to disrupt a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.