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

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

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 very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions Following Recent Remarks

Maresca's latest statement follow after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial words had fueled considerable talk of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged 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 fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

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

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has become notably strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with strong performances in their remaining games.

The lingering question is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a team that was just starting to look cohesive.