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

Chelsea gaffer 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 right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing speculation about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," 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 attention, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent comments come in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

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

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

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

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.

The mood during these press conferences has grown notably awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European position with strong results in their final games.

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