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

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the persistent rumours about his future.

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

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. 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 connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

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

Strain After Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest statement follow after he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those initial words had sparked widespread talk of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived 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 matter publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has become notably awkward, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League position with good results in their remaining matches.

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