Blues 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 "100% speculation".

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extension option.

"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 further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain Following Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent statement follow after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

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

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

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

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

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has become notably awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European draw with strong performances in their final matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to look settled.