Chelsea Football Club has been plunged into another managerial search following the departure of head coach Enzo Maresca on New Year's Day. Amid the hunt for a successor, a surprising name has been floated for a potential future return: club legend Frank Lampard.
Lampard's Chelsea Legacy and Coventry Revival
Frank Lampard, who enjoyed a storied playing career at Stamford Bridge, has already managed the club on two separate occasions. His first tenure saw him secure Champions League qualification during a transfer embargo, notably promoting young talents like Reece James and Mason Mount. However, he was dismissed the following season and replaced by Thomas Tuchel.
The 46-year-old returned in a caretaker role in 2023 after Graham Potter's sacking, but managed just one win in 11 games. Lampard has since rebuilt his reputation spectacularly at Championship side Coventry City. He has guided the Sky Blues to the top of the table, where they currently hold an eight-point lead and are ten points clear of third place, putting them in a commanding position for promotion to the Premier League.
Gallas Backs Lampard for Future Blues Return
The suggestion of a remarkable third stint for Lampard at Chelsea comes from his former teammate, William Gallas. Speaking last March, Gallas argued that success with Coventry could pave the way for a future reunion in West London.
"After what happened to Frank Lampard, we had to be patient," Gallas said. "He is doing well right now with Coventry City... But you never know, he could go back. That’s why it’s good for him to improve and do something really good with another Premier League team in the future... That would give him more experience and then one day, we could see him at Chelsea again."
While Lampard is currently considered an outsider for the immediate vacancy, Gallas's comments highlight the enduring connection between the player and the club.
Chelsea's Immediate Search After Maresca Exit
The speculation about Lampard's future comes as Chelsea confirmed Enzo Maresca's exit by mutual consent. In a statement, the club thanked the Italian for his contributions, which included winning the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup.
The club stated that with key objectives, including Champions League qualification, still attainable across four competitions, a change was believed to be the best chance to get the season back on track. The search for Maresca's replacement is now underway, with early favourites including:
- Liam Rosenior
- Oliver Glasner
- Andoni Iraola
For now, Frank Lampard remains fully focused on his mission at Coventry City, where the club is poised to back him in the January transfer window. Leading the Sky Blues back to the Premier League for the first time since 2001 would be a monumental achievement, and one that, according to William Gallas, could eventually lead him home to Stamford Bridge once more.
