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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

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

Tensions After Recent Comments

Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

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

When asked if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the matter unresolved.

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has become increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent start to the season.

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

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.