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

Chelsea head coach 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 in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.

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

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured 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, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions After Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent comments come after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

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

When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, 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 injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become notably awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League draw with strong results in their remaining matches.

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