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

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year option.

"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 further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about 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 ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions Following Recent Comments

Maresca's latest statement come after he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled considerable talk of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown notably awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European draw with strong performances in their final matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to appear settled.