Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extension available.

"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, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain Following Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent comments come after he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original words had fueled considerable speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

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

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

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.

The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown notably strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European position with good performances in their remaining games.

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