Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as Pure Gossip

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extension option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," 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 for several more years. And my attention, I said 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 ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent comments come in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

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

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology offered, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown notably strained, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European draw with good performances in their remaining games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to affect a team that was just starting to look cohesive.