Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a potential extension option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "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 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 connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain Following Recent Comments

Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original remarks had sparked considerable speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The manager did confirm he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during the manager's media briefings has grown notably awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European draw with good performances in their final games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to look settled.