Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as '100%' Gossip

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extension option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," 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 until 2029. And my attention, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain After Recent Comments

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

Those initial words had sparked widespread speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The Italian did confirm he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology offered, leaving the matter unresolved.

The mood during these media briefings has grown increasingly strained, leading to fears it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.

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

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