Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as Pure Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, 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 fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions After Recent Remarks

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

Those original words had sparked considerable speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has also been no apology offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

The mood during these press conferences has become notably awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable European draw with strong results in their final games.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to appear settled.