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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

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

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extension 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 focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions After Previous Comments

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

Those original remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a possible rift between the coach 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 speak about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

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

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has equally been no resolution offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with good performances in their remaining matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to appear settled.