Chelsea have officially commenced their hunt for a new head coach after confirming the departure of Enzo Maresca on New Year's Day, but have already ruled out a move for club legend John Terry.
Maresca's Sudden Exit Confirmed
The club released a statement on 1 January 2026 announcing they had parted company with the 45-year-old Italian. Maresca's tenure, though brief, saw the Blues secure silverware in the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup.
The statement read: "With key objectives still to play for across four competitions, including qualification for Champions League football, Enzo and the club believe a change gives the team the best chance of getting the season back on track." His final match was a 2-2 Premier League draw with Bournemouth just days before his exit.
Terry Backed But Not Considered
Following the announcement, speculation immediately turned to potential successors. Renowned broadcaster Richard Keys publicly championed former Chelsea captain John Terry for the role.
Writing on X, formerly Twitter, Keys stated: "If I'm a Chelsea fan I want to see JT given a go. He's a Chelsea man to the core - has served time elsewhere & there's no reason he can't do what [Frank] Lampard is doing at Coventry - with better tools."
However, football.london has reported that Terry is not under consideration by the Chelsea hierarchy for the vacant managerial position. This dashes the hopes of some fans who saw the ex-defender as a potential inspirational appointment.
Search for Successor Gathers Pace
With Terry out of the frame, Chelsea's search is focusing on other candidates. Names linked include Liam Rosenior, currently in charge at Strasbourg and formerly of Hull City.
In another development, it is also reported that Marseille manager Roberto De Zerbi is not in contention for the Stamford Bridge job at this time. The club's immediate focus turns to a crucial Premier League fixture away to Manchester City on Sunday, with the team currently fifth, two points behind fourth-placed Liverpool.
The managerial change also coincides with the opening of the January transfer window, where Chelsea are expected to be active in the market as they aim to salvage a season that still offers potential Champions League qualification.
