Chelsea Boss Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Speculation as Pure Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has labelled recent reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the ongoing rumours about his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in the summer of 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a potential extension option.

"It doesn't affect 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, "First of all, 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 not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT kick-off.

Tensions After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest comments come after he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

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

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

The Italian did confirm he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on supporters to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that injured forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, possibly available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still create unease.

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has equally been no apology forthcoming, leaving the matter unresolved.

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

Chelsea's on-field position is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the League Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European position with strong performances in their final matches.

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