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

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain Following Previous Comments

Maresca's latest statement come after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked considerable speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

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

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has become notably awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European position with strong results in their final games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might begin to disrupt a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.