Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, 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 Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

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

Tensions Following Previous Comments

Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he described a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

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

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has become notably strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European position with good results in their final games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually affect a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.