Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Gossip

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extension 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 such distractions."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, 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 fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement follow after he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial words had sparked considerable speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

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

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly awkward, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable Champions League draw with strong performances in their remaining matches.

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