Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours about his future.

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

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

He further elaborated, "First of all, 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 very proud 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 without foundation."

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

Strain After Recent Remarks

Maresca's latest comments come after he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked considerable talk of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

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

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has become increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European draw with good results in their remaining games.

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