Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Gossip

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extension 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 these kind of things."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated 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 not true."

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

Tensions After Recent Remarks

Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

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

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The manager however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: 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 deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly strained, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.

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

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to look settled.