Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports connecting 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, addressed the persistent speculation about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extension available.

"It doesn't affect 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, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud 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 without foundation."

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

Tensions After Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent comments follow in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during these press conferences has grown increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better European position with strong results in their remaining matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to look cohesive.