Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Gossip

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent talk 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 persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extra year available.

"It doesn't affect 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 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 honoured 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, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Strain After Previous Comments

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

Those initial words had fueled considerable speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

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

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology offered, creating the matter unresolved.

The atmosphere during these media briefings has become notably awkward, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European position with strong results in their remaining games.

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