Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extension available.

"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 such distractions."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, 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 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 scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest statement come after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

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

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

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that continues to create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the matter unresolved.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown notably awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better European draw with strong performances in their remaining games.

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