Blues Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as Pure Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded fresh talk linking him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the persistent speculation about 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 little room for such distractions."

He went on to explain, 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 rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, presently placed fourth in the top flight, are scheduled to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime fixture.

Tensions Following Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent statement follow after he described a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had fueled considerable speculation of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's leadership, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

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

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

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, leaving the disagreement unaddressed.

The mood during the manager's media briefings has become increasingly awkward, raising concerns it could undermine what has otherwise been a promising beginning to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are in the top four in the league, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a better Champions League draw with strong results in their final games.

The prevailing question is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to affect a squad that was just starting to look cohesive.