Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as Pure Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk linking 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, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extra year available.

"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 such distractions."

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said 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 linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. 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 lunchtime fixture.

Strain Following Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent comments follow after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his most difficult since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

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, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The mood during these press conferences has become increasingly awkward, raising fears it could impact what has up to now been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European position with good results in their final games.

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