Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester 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 Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the ongoing speculation about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible 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 these kind of things."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. 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 fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions After Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those initial words had sparked considerable speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

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

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the matter unresolved.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has become notably awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European draw with strong results in their remaining matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was just starting to appear settled.