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

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. 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 top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent comments come in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had fueled considerable speculation 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 responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

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

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European draw with strong performances in their remaining matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to affect a team that was just starting to look settled.