Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent 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 bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. 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 kick-off.

Tensions After Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent statement follow after he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial words had sparked widespread speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The manager did confirm he would "absolutely" stay at the club next season and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that continues to create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown notably awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is positive: they are in the top four 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 remaining games.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.