Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Gossip

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

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

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

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

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

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

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

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better European draw with good results in their remaining matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to appear settled.