Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Gossip

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, "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 linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions After Previous Remarks

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

Those original words had fueled considerable talk of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

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

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation 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 increasingly strained, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.

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

The prevailing question is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear settled.