Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Gossip

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extension option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain After Recent Comments

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

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

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."

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

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

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has also been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during these press conferences has become increasingly strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable European position with good results in their final matches.

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