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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room 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 said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured 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 without foundation."

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

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent comments come in the wake of he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked considerable speculation of a possible rift between the coach 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 different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."

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

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become increasingly strained, leading to fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European position with good results in their final games.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to look cohesive.