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

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports 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 at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his future.

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

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "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 for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about 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 not true."

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

Tensions Following Recent Comments

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

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

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

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

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League position with strong performances in their final games.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was just starting to look settled.