Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Gossip

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extra year option.

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

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my focus, I said many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

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

Strain Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's latest comments follow after he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those initial words had sparked widespread speculation of a potential rift between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had discussed matters with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "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 definitely stay at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a match 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 still cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the disagreement unresolved.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has become increasingly strained, leading to fears it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the League Cup last four, and can achieve a better European position with strong performances in their remaining matches.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was just starting to appear settled.