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

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

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

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extension option.

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

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

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

Tensions After Recent Remarks

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

Those initial remarks had sparked considerable talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The Italian did confirm 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 indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has become notably strained, raising concerns it could undermine 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 league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable Champions League draw with good results in their remaining games.

The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to look settled.