Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential 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 no time for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, 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 Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain Following Previous Comments

Maresca's latest statement follow after he described a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked considerable talk of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager 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 indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back 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 persists as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

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

The atmosphere during these media briefings has become increasingly strained, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European draw with good performances in their remaining games.

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