Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects 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 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running 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 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 honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

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

Tensions After Recent Remarks

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

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

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

The manager did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

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

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has become notably awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European draw with good performances in their final games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to look cohesive.