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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours about his future.

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

"It doesn't affect 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 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 speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions After Recent Comments

Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

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

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "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 "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.

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

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League position with good performances in their final matches.

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