Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Gossip

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extension 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 went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I said many times, is solely on 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 not true."

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

Strain After Previous Comments

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

Those initial words had fueled widespread talk of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.

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

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with strong results in their remaining matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.