Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," 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 for several more years. And my focus, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original words had fueled considerable talk of a potential rift between the coach 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 facility, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay 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 in contention 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 continues to cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during these media briefings has become notably strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can secure a better European position with good results in their remaining matches.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to look cohesive.