Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as Pure Gossip

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room 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 have stated 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, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain After Recent Comments

Maresca's latest statement follow after he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had fueled widespread talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European position with good results in their remaining games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear settled.