Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extension available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "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 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 rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain Following Previous Comments

Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

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

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

The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.

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

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League draw with good results in their final games.

The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.