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

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year available.

"It doesn't bother 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, Primarily, 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 linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement follow after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had fueled widespread speculation of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

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

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has become notably awkward, leading to fears it could undermine 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 League Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with good performances in their final matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a team that was beginning to look settled.