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

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year available.

"It doesn't bother 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 attention, 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 connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

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

Tensions Following Previous Comments

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

Those original remarks had sparked widespread talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that continues to create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no resolution offered, creating the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown increasingly strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable Champions League draw with strong results in their final games.

The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to look cohesive.