Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as '100%' Gossip

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

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

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

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had fueled widespread talk of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

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

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still cause concern.

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

The mood during these press conferences has become increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.

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

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.