Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Gossip

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension 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 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 very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions Following Previous Remarks

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

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

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.

The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown increasingly strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with good performances in their final games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to appear settled.