Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't affect 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 went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, 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 don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

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

Tensions Following Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked considerable speculation of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that continues to cause concern.

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

The mood during these press conferences has grown notably strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European draw with strong performances in their remaining matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a team that was beginning to appear settled.