Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as '100%' Gossip

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

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

Strain After Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had sparked considerable talk of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has also been no apology offered, leaving the matter unresolved.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown notably strained, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now 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 achieve a better European draw with strong results in their final games.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.