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

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

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

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

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. 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 Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions Following Recent Remarks

Maresca's latest statement come after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had sparked considerable talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the matter unresolved.

The mood during these press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League position with good results in their remaining games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.