Enzo Maresca has officially resigned as Chelsea manager with immediate effect. This comes after the Blues held an emergency meeting to discuss the Italy international’s future after they had just one win in their last seven Premier League games. According to The Athletic, it was ultimately decided that his position was untenable and he was forced to leave Stamford Bridge.
As a result, Chelsea will be without a permanent manager for their next game against Manchester City. It is expected that a new manager will be appointed in due course, with Strasbourg head coach Liam Rosenior seen as one of the frontrunners. Chelsea confirmed Maresca’s departure in a statement on Thursday afternoon, explaining that they felt it was time for a change.
A statement read: “Chelsea Football Club and head coach Enzo Maresca have parted ways. During his time at the club, Enzo led the team to success in the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup.”
“These achievements will remain an important part of the club’s recent history and we are grateful for his contribution to the club.
“Enzo and the club believe that the changes will give the team the best chance of getting the season back on track, as important objectives remain across four competitions, including qualification for the Champions League. We wish Enzo all the best for the future.”
Chelsea were held to a draw with Bournemouth in Maresca’s final game as manager earlier this week. He was absent from the postgame press conference and was replaced by assistant coach Willie Caballero.
The coach explained, “Enzo is not feeling well.He hasn’t been feeling well for the past two days, but he still trained and participated in today’s game.”
“I took his place to make it clear that he is not fit enough to do the remaining job that the manager has to do, so I am here in his place.”
Maresca joined Chelsea in the summer of 2024, leaving his role at Leicester City to take up the role at Stamford Bridge. He led the Blues to the top five of the Premier League in his debut season, while also achieving Conference League glory.
Things got even better over the summer as Chelsea won the revamped Club World Cup and were to be known as world champions for the next four years.
They currently sit fifth in the Premier League table, 15 points behind leaders and favorites Arsenal. It remains to be seen how Maresca’s shock departure will affect the club’s January transfer plans.
