Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Gossip

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

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

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

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 very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent comments follow 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 considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The manager did confirm he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

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

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

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

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has become increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League position with good results in their remaining matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to disrupt a team that was beginning to look settled.