Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Gossip

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, 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 such distractions."

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated 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 connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain After Previous Remarks

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

Those original words had fueled widespread speculation of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The manager did confirm he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the situation publicly, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has become notably strained, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better European draw with good results in their final games.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.