Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh reports linking 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 in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud 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 without foundation."

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

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent comments come after he described a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager 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 speak about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The manager did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.

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

The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League draw with good results in their final games.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to appear settled.