Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded 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 right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated 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, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain Following Recent Comments

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

Those initial words had fueled considerable speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

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

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

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

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown notably awkward, leading to fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable Champions League position with strong results in their final matches.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.