Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Gossip

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension option.

"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 further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

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

Strain After Recent Remarks

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

Those original remarks had sparked considerable talk of a potential disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The manager did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still create unease.

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

The mood during these press conferences has become notably strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European position with good results in their remaining games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.