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

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible 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 little room for such distractions."

He further elaborated, "First of all, 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 connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest comments follow after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those initial words had sparked widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

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

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during these media briefings has become notably awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can secure a better European draw with good results in their remaining games.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear settled.