Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Gossip

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

The 45-year-old, 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 that runs until 2029, with a possible extension available.

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

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about 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 ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

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

Tensions Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

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

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

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

The mood during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly strained, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with good performances in their final games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.