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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded 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 right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year available.

"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 further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

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

Strain Following Recent Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he described a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

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

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no resolution offered, creating the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become notably strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European position with strong results in their final games.

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