Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as Pure Gossip

Chelsea gaffer Enzo Maresca has branded recent reports connecting him with a return to Manchester City as "100% speculation".

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

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running until 2029, with a possible 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 such distractions."

He further elaborated, Primarily, 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 rumour. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United on Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Tensions After Previous Comments

Maresca's most recent statement come after he referred to a recent two-day spell as his "worst" since arriving at Chelsea.

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

When asked if he had since spoken with the Chelsea's sporting directors, Maresca replied, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton press conference, no."

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

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

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

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

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

The mood during these press conferences has become increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could undermine what has up to now been a promising beginning to the season.

Chelsea's on-field situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable Champions League draw with good results in their remaining games.

The lingering uncertainty is whether this off-field dynamic might eventually affect a team that was just starting to appear cohesive.