Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk linking 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 persistent speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential 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, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions After Recent Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked widespread talk of a potential rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. 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 supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that continues to create unease.

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

The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown notably awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the campaign.

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

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a team that was beginning to appear settled.