Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as Pure Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports connecting 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, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year 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 these kind of things."

He went on to explain, 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 rumour. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain After Recent Comments

Maresca's latest statement come after he referred to a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

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

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

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

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

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly strained, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with strong results in their remaining games.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.