Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh 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 persistent speculation surrounding his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running 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 further elaborated, 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 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 not true."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain Following Previous Remarks

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

Those initial remarks had fueled widespread talk 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 responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and urged 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: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that continues to create unease.

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

The mood during the manager's media briefings has become increasingly strained, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League position with good performances in their final matches.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually affect a squad that was just starting to look cohesive.