Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the persistent rumours about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year option.

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

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said 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 linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

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

Strain Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest comments come after he described a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

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

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.

The mood during these press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign.

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

The prevailing question is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to look settled.