Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, Primarily, 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 very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. 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 in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions After Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest comments come after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had sparked considerable talk of a possible rift between the manager 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 speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

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

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still cause concern.

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

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become notably strained, 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 Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European draw with good performances in their remaining games.

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