Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as Pure Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports 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 at the Etihad, responded to the ongoing rumours about his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a 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 stated. "And at this moment, there is little room 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 honoured to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest comments come after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those initial words had fueled considerable speculation of a potential disagreement between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

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

The manager however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially in contention 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 open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has equally been no resolution offered, creating the matter unresolved.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown notably strained, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better European draw with good performances in their final games.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might begin to disrupt a team that was just starting to appear settled.