Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Links as Pure Rumour

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk 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 in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extra year available.

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

He went on to explain, Primarily, 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 honoured to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was linked with Juventus in Italy. 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 on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest comments follow in the wake of he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked widespread talk 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 responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

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

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has also been no apology offered, leaving the matter unresolved.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown notably awkward, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European draw with strong results in their remaining games.

The prevailing question is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a team that was beginning to appear settled.