Blues Boss Maresca Rejects Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's right-hand man at the Etihad, addressed the ongoing speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, appointed Chelsea manager in June 2024, has a contract running through the end of the decade, with a possible extension option.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," 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 for several more years. And my attention, I have stated many times, is solely on this club and I'm very proud to be here. But again, it's speculation. One week ago I was connected to Juventus in Italy. So I ignore it because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting in fourth position in the Premier League, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a lunchtime kick-off.

Strain Following Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent comments follow in the wake of he described a previous 48-hour period as his "worst" since joining Chelsea.

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

When asked 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 media session, no."

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

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that injured attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa later this month.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The apparent disconnect between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an unhealed issue that continues to cause concern.

While there has been no deepening of the situation in the open, there has equally been no apology offered, creating the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these media briefings has grown increasingly strained, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.

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

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually disrupt a squad that was beginning to appear cohesive.