Blues Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Speculation as Pure Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh reports connecting him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, responded to the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in the summer of 2024, has a contract that runs until 2029, with a possible extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "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 until 2029. 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 connected to a role in Italy with Juventus. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

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

Strain After Previous Comments

Maresca's latest statement come in the wake of he referred to a recent 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

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

When asked if he had discussed matters with the club's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

The Italian however affirmed he would "absolutely" remain at the club next season and called on the fans to keep backing the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

The perceived strain between Maresca and the Chelsea board remains as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

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

The mood during these media briefings has grown increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a decent beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better European position with good performances in their final matches.

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