Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as Pure Gossip

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss 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 completely unfounded," Maresca stated. "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 for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain Following Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent statement come in the wake of he referred to a previous two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

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

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that continues to cause concern.

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

The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown notably strained, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with strong performances in their remaining games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to look settled.