Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. 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 linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions Following Previous Comments

Maresca's latest comments come after he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had sparked widespread talk of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

The mood during these press conferences has grown notably strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European position with good performances in their final games.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a team that was just starting to look cohesive.