Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation 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 once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extension option.

"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 such distractions."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said 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 in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions After Previous Remarks

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

Those original words had sparked widespread speculation of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

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

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown notably awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League draw with strong results in their remaining games.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.