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

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't affect 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 further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said 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 linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions After Recent Remarks

Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked widespread talk of a potential rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

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

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

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

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during these media briefings has grown notably awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better European draw with strong results in their final games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.