Chelsea Football Club have sensationally parted company with head coach Enzo Maresca, with the club briefing reporters that the Italian lacked the 'mental fortitude and emotional maturity' required for the job. The extraordinary claim was read out live on Sky Sports, highlighting the spectacular breakdown in the relationship at Stamford Bridge.
The Final Straw and Public Fallout
The 45-year-old's departure was confirmed on Thursday following what the club described as a complete breakdown with senior officials. His position became untenable after a turbulent period where Chelsea won just one of their last seven Premier League matches. Maresca's final game in charge was Tuesday's 2-2 home draw with Bournemouth.
The writing had been on the wall following a public outburst from Maresca, where he claimed to have endured his 'worst 48 hours' even after a victory over Everton. Club officials were deeply unimpressed by these comments and by his decision to skip Tuesday's post-match press conference, citing illness—a move the hierarchy viewed as unprofessional and disrespectful to deputy Willy Caballero.
Key Issues Behind the Scenes
Daily Mail Sport understands the core disputes centred on serious friction between Maresca and the club's medical department. The manager was accused of ignoring medical advice on injured players and playing them for too long upon their return, creating a major internal conflict.
Further aggravating the situation were reports linking Maresca with a return to Manchester City, where he previously worked under Pep Guardiola. This, combined with the ongoing disputes, led to showdown talks and his eventual dismissal.
Search for a Successor Begins
Chelsea are now moving swiftly to appoint a replacement. The club has a small shortlist, with bookmakers' favourite Liam Rosenior and Bournemouth's Andoni Iraola under consideration. Former Brighton boss Roberto de Zerbi, now at Marseille, is not on the list, nor are club legends Cesc Fabregas or John Terry.
The new manager is expected to be in place soon and could even oversee Wednesday's derby against Fulham. An interim plan is being made for this Sunday's challenging trip to face Manchester City.
In a brief 99-word statement, Chelsea thanked Maresca for leading the team to success in the UEFA Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup, but stated both parties believed a change was needed to get the season back on track.
