Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under 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 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions After Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent statement come after he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those initial words had sparked considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters 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 in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution offered, leaving the matter unresolved.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has become increasingly strained, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better European draw with good performances in their remaining matches.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a team that was beginning to look cohesive.