Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as Pure Gossip

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year option.

"It doesn't bother 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 for several more years. And my attention, 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 Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions After Recent Comments

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

Those initial remarks had sparked widespread talk of a possible disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has become notably strained, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better European draw with strong results in their final games.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.