Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Gossip

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

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

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions After Recent Comments

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

Those original words had fueled widespread speculation 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 speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

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

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with good results in their final matches.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.