Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Gossip

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

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, responded to the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extension option.

"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 these kind of things."

He further elaborated, 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, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain Following Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he described a recent 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial words had fueled considerable talk of a potential rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked 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 manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

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

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board 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 equally been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during these media briefings has become notably awkward, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with strong performances in their final matches.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear settled.