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The Italian manager, who only joined the Blues in the summer of 2024, departs after a rapid breakdown in relations with the club's hierarchy, amid a disappointing run of form that saw the team win just one of their last seven Premier League matches.
Reliable sources, including Fabrizio Romano, first broke the news that Chelsea and Maresca had agreed to separate following escalating tensions over the past 48 hours. An official club statement soon followed, confirming the parting and expressing gratitude for his contributions. "During his time at the club, Enzo led the team to success in the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup," the statement read.
"Those achievements will remain an important part of the Club’s recent history, and we thank him for his contributions. 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. We wish Enzo well for the future."Maresca's tenure began with promise. After guiding Leicester City to promotion, he quickly implemented his possession-based style at Stamford Bridge, leading Chelsea to a top-four finish and two major trophies in his debut season.
However, cracks appeared in recent months. Public comments from the 45-year-old about lacking "support" from within the club were seen as pointed criticisms of owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali, as well as the sporting directors. Reports also suggest Maresca had explored future opportunities, including discussions linked to Manchester City as a potential successor to Pep Guardiola.On the pitch, Chelsea's form dipped alarmingly in December, leaving them fifth in the Premier League, 15 points behind leaders Arsenal. His final game was a frustrating 2-2 draw against Bournemouth. The decision comes as Chelsea prepare for a tough trip to Manchester City this weekend, with assistant Willy Caballero likely to take temporary charge.
The Blues are wasting no time in searching for a successor, with names like Liam Rosenior—currently impressing at partner club Strasbourg—emerging as early contenders. This marks yet another managerial change under the current ownership, highlighting the ongoing turbulence at one of England's biggest clubs.
Fans will hope this bold move sparks a turnaround, but questions linger about the long-term stability at Stamford Bridge.
"Those achievements will remain an important part of the Club’s recent history, and we thank him for his contributions. 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. We wish Enzo well for the future."Maresca's tenure began with promise. After guiding Leicester City to promotion, he quickly implemented his possession-based style at Stamford Bridge, leading Chelsea to a top-four finish and two major trophies in his debut season.
However, cracks appeared in recent months. Public comments from the 45-year-old about lacking "support" from within the club were seen as pointed criticisms of owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali, as well as the sporting directors. Reports also suggest Maresca had explored future opportunities, including discussions linked to Manchester City as a potential successor to Pep Guardiola.On the pitch, Chelsea's form dipped alarmingly in December, leaving them fifth in the Premier League, 15 points behind leaders Arsenal. His final game was a frustrating 2-2 draw against Bournemouth. The decision comes as Chelsea prepare for a tough trip to Manchester City this weekend, with assistant Willy Caballero likely to take temporary charge.
The Blues are wasting no time in searching for a successor, with names like Liam Rosenior—currently impressing at partner club Strasbourg—emerging as early contenders. This marks yet another managerial change under the current ownership, highlighting the ongoing turbulence at one of England's biggest clubs.
Fans will hope this bold move sparks a turnaround, but questions linger about the long-term stability at Stamford Bridge.
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