Blues Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as Pure Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk 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 ongoing rumours surrounding his future.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential 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 for several more years. And my attention, I said many times, is just about 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 ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest statement follow after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked widespread talk of a possible rift between the coach and the club's key decision-makers.

When asked if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we speak about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would definitely stay at the club next season and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

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

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that still create unease.

While there has been no deepening of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has grown notably awkward, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better European position with good performances in their final games.

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