Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man in Manchester, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time for such distractions."

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's rumour. One week ago I was connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

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

Tensions After Previous Remarks

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

Those original words had sparked considerable speculation of a possible rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, 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 injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.

The mood during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better Champions League position with good performances in their final matches.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to affect a team that was beginning to appear settled.