Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Links as Pure Gossip

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

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the ongoing rumours surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension available.

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

He went on to explain, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I have stated 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 linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

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

Strain After Recent Remarks

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

Those original words had fueled widespread talk of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's key decision-makers.

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

The manager however affirmed he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on supporters to "continue to support the team".

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

Analysis: Unresolved Tension

The perceived disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy remains as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the matter in the open, there has also been no resolution offered, leaving the matter unresolved.

The mood during these press conferences has grown increasingly strained, raising concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is strong: they are fourth in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can secure a better Champions League position with good results in their final games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field situation might eventually disrupt a team that was just starting to look cohesive.