Chelsea Manager Maresca Rejects Manchester City Links as Pure Gossip

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

The Italian manager, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola's assistant in Manchester, responded to the ongoing speculation about his future.

Maresca, named Chelsea manager in June 2024, is under contract running through the end of the decade, with a potential extension available.

"It doesn't bother me at all because I know that is completely unfounded," Maresca said. "And at this moment, there is no time 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 linked with Juventus in Italy. So I don't pay attention because I know that is without foundation."

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

Tensions After Previous Comments

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

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

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

The Italian did confirm he would definitely remain at the club for the coming campaign and called on the fans to "continue to support the team".

In brighter news, Maresca indicated that sidelined forwards Liam Delap and Estevao Willian could be back ahead of schedule, possibly in contention for a fixture against Aston Villa on 27 December.

Analysis: An 'Open Wound'

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

While there has been no further escalation of the matter publicly, there has equally been no apology offered, leaving the disagreement unresolved.

The mood during these press conferences has become increasingly awkward, leading to concerns it could impact what has otherwise been a decent start to the campaign.

Chelsea's sporting situation is strong: they are fourth in the Premier League, have reached the Carabao Cup semi-finals, and can achieve a better Champions League draw with strong results in their remaining games.

The prevailing uncertainty is whether this behind-the-scenes situation might begin to disrupt a squad that was beginning to look settled.