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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk linking 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 boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain Following Previous Comments

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

Those original words had fueled widespread speculation of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

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

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has grown notably 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 Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better European draw with good results in their final games.

The lingering question is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.