Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as Pure Gossip

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh 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 manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "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 until 2029. And my attention, I have stated many times, is just about this club and I'm honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

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

Tensions Following Previous Remarks

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

Those original remarks had fueled widespread talk of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

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

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has become increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a favourable European position with good results in their remaining matches.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to affect a squad that was beginning to look cohesive.