Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, 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 without foundation."

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

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest comments come in the wake of he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those original remarks had fueled considerable speculation of a potential rift between the coach 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 definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, possibly available for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a favourable European draw with strong performances in their final matches.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to appear cohesive.