Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a potential extra year option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for such distractions."

He went on to explain, 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 speculation. 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 Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain After Recent Remarks

Maresca's most recent comments follow after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

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

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly strained, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable Champions League position with strong results in their remaining games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a team that was beginning to look cohesive.