Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the ongoing speculation about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extension 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 further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention 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 lunchtime fixture.

Strain After Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had sparked considerable talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

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

The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially 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 unhealed issue that continues to create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution offered, leaving the matter unaddressed.

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

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European position with good results in their remaining games.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to appear settled.