Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Gossip

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports linking him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is no time for these kind of things."

He further elaborated, "First of all, because I have a contract here for several more years. And my attention, 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 linked with a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions Following Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent statement follow in the wake of he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had sparked widespread speculation of a possible rift between the manager 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 talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club next season and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

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 matter publicly, there has also been no resolution offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during these media briefings has become notably awkward, raising fears it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a favourable European draw with good results in their remaining matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a team that was beginning to look cohesive.