Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour

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 assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extra year available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca stated. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

He went on to explain, "First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029. 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 connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

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

Strain Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest statement follow in the wake of he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

Those initial remarks had sparked widespread talk of a possible rift between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same building, so we talk about various topics. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

The manager did confirm he would definitely stay at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially available for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an open wound that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation in the open, there has equally been no resolution offered, leaving the matter unresolved.

The mood during these press conferences has become notably awkward, raising concerns it could impact what has up to now been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better European position with good performances in their final matches.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear settled.