Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as Pure Gossip

Chelsea gaffer 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 right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year option.

"It doesn't affect 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 further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, 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 don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

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

Tensions Following Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent comments come after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

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

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that continues to create unease.

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

The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly strained, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European draw with strong results in their final games.

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