Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a 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 for several more years. And my attention, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm honoured 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 not true."

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

Tensions Following Previous Comments

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

Those original remarks had fueled widespread speculation of a potential rift between the coach and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown notably strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the league, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with strong performances in their remaining matches.

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