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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk 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 at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible 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 little room for such distractions."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

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

Strain After Previous Remarks

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

Those original words had fueled widespread speculation of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

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

The manager 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, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

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

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, creating the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during these press conferences has become notably awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable European draw with good results in their final matches.

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