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

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk 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 at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible 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 until 2029. And my focus, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. 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 set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions Following Previous Comments

Maresca's latest statement come after he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

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

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.

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

The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown notably strained, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League draw with strong performances in their final matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.