Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as Pure Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled 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 in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension available.

"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 these kind of things."

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 linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is without foundation."

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

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest statement come after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had sparked considerable talk of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and urged the fans to keep backing the team".

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

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the matter unresolved.

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

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better 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 look cohesive.