Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Manchester City Links as Pure Gossip

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has labelled fresh talk connecting him with a return to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, addressed the persistent speculation surrounding his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract that runs until 2029, with a potential extension option.

"It doesn't affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is little room for these kind of things."

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

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

Tensions Following Previous Remarks

Maresca's most recent statement come after he referred to a previous two-day spell as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those original words had sparked 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 sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same building, so we talk about different things. But about the post-Everton media session, no."

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

In brighter news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return sooner than expected, potentially available for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: Unresolved Tension

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

While there has been no further escalation of the matter in the open, there has also been no resolution forthcoming, creating the disagreement unaddressed.

The atmosphere during these press conferences has become notably awkward, leading to fears it could impact 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 Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup last four, and can secure a favourable European position with strong performances in their final matches.

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