Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as Pure Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk linking 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 speculation about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year available.

"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 these kind of things."

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my focus, I have stated 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 linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the Premier League, are scheduled to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Tensions After Previous Remarks

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

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

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an open wound that still cause concern.

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

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has become notably awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting position is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European position with good results in their remaining games.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to disrupt a squad that was just starting to appear cohesive.