Chelsea Manager Maresca Dismisses Man City Speculation as Pure Rumour

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has branded recent talk linking him with a move to Manchester City as nothing but hearsay.

The 45-year-old, who once served as Pep Guardiola's assistant at the Etihad, addressed the persistent rumours about his next move.

Maresca, named Chelsea boss in June 2024, is under contract that runs through the end of the decade, with a possible extension available.

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

He further elaborated, Primarily, because I have a contract here until 2029. And my attention, I said 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 linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is not true."

Chelsea, currently sitting fourth in the top flight, are set to face Newcastle United this Saturday in a 12:30 GMT fixture.

Strain Following Recent Comments

Maresca's most recent comments come after he referred to a previous 48-hour period as his most difficult since joining Chelsea.

Those initial words had sparked widespread talk of a possible disagreement between the manager and the club's ownership hierarchy.

When pressed if he had since spoken with the club's sporting directors, Maresca responded, "We are in the same facility, so we talk about various topics. But about the Everton media session, no."

The manager however affirmed he would "absolutely" stay at the club for the coming campaign and urged supporters to "continue to support the team".

In more positive news, Maresca revealed that sidelined attackers Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could return ahead of schedule, potentially in contention for a match against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Perspective: An 'Open Wound'

The perceived strain between Maresca and the club's hierarchy persists as an open wound that still cause concern.

While there has been no further escalation of the situation publicly, there has also been no apology forthcoming, creating the matter unaddressed.

The atmosphere during the manager's press conferences has grown increasingly strained, raising fears it could impact what has otherwise been a promising start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is positive: they are fourth in the Premier League, have qualified for the Carabao Cup last four, and can achieve a better European position with strong performances in their remaining matches.

The lingering question is whether this behind-the-scenes dynamic might eventually affect a squad that was beginning to appear settled.