Chelsea Football Club have confirmed the departure of head coach Enzo Maresca after a tenure lasting just 18 months. The Italian leaves with the Blues sitting fifth in the Premier League table, a significant 15 points behind leaders Arsenal.
A Season Unravelling
The decision follows a dismal run of form, with Chelsea securing just one victory from their last seven Premier League matches. Maresca's final game in charge was Tuesday's 2-2 home draw against Bournemouth, after which he missed the post-match press conference due to illness.
In a club statement, Chelsea indicated the move was mutual, stating: "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."
Strained Relationships and Speculation
Speculation over Maresca's future had been intensifying, fuelled by reports of a strained relationship with key figures within the Stamford Bridge hierarchy. The situation became public when, after a 2-0 win over Everton on December 13, Maresca revealed he had endured his "worst 48 hours" at the club because "many people didn't support me and the team." He repeatedly refused to elaborate on those pointed comments.
Maresca, the former Leicester City boss, was appointed in June 2024 as the successor to Mauricio Pochettino. His first season was successful, guiding Chelsea to a fourth-place finish, Champions League qualification, and victories in the Conference League and Club World Cup. His contract was set to run until 2029.
What Happens Next for Chelsea?
The search for a new manager begins immediately, with a packed January schedule ahead. Chelsea's next fixture is a daunting trip to face Manchester City on Sunday, the first of nine matches across four competitions this month.
Bookmakers have installed Liam Rosenior, currently head coach of French side Strasbourg – a club owned by Chelsea's parent company BlueCo – as the early favourite to take over. Other potential candidates linked with the role include former Barcelona coach Xavi, Crystal Palace's Oliver Glasner, Fulham's Marco Silva, and Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola.
The club's hierarchy will be hoping a swift appointment can stabilise the squad and salvage a season that promised much but has recently faltered badly.
