Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Gossip

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "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 until 2029. 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 don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions After Recent Comments

Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

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

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.

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

The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown notably strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better European position with good results in their final matches.

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