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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled 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, responded to the persistent speculation about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year option.

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

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 honoured 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, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions After Recent Comments

Maresca's latest comments follow after he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

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

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

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

The atmosphere during these press conferences has become notably awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League position with strong performances in their final matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was just starting to appear settled.