Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Gossip

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year available.

"It doesn't bother 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, "First of all, 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 connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain After Recent Comments

Maresca's latest statement follow after he described a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled widespread talk of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on the fans 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.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

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

The mood during these media briefings has grown increasingly strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign.

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

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