Chelsea Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, is under contract running until 2029, with a possible extension option.

"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 have stated 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 linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Strain After Recent Remarks

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

Those original remarks had sparked considerable talk of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's leadership, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we speak about various topics. But about the Everton press conference, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and urged supporters to keep backing 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 later this month.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the Chelsea board persists as an unhealed issue that still cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unresolved.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has grown increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising start to the campaign.

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

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to appear settled.