While this may not immediately trigger a change of manager, the club’s top brass may already be considering potential Maresca replacements. Chelsea have a number of avenues, either hiring a currently employed manager or offering a position to someone who is not currently at the club.
So, if Chelsea were to part ways with Maresca, who would be a candidate?
zinedine zidane
Consecutive champion Zinedine Zidane has been unemployed since leaving Real Madrid for the second time in 2021. But that hasn’t stopped him from being associated with other roles. Both Manchester United and the French national team have reportedly considered him in the past.
There is no question that Zidane brings a wealth of experience to west London. His trophy cabinet includes three Champions League titles, two league titles and numerous other accolades.
It remains to be seen whether Zidane is interested in a move to West London, but there is no doubt that his appointment will be a significant change for Chelsea.
gareth southgate
Gareth Southgate, who has been unemployed since stepping down as England manager, has consistently insisted he is not actively looking for a new job. But the resources available to him as Chelsea manager may be too tempting to resist.
It is worth noting that Southgate has not managed in the Premier League for almost 20 years, having completed his last spell at Middlesbrough in 2009.
liam rosenia
Todd Boley could use his football connections to secure one of the most promising young managers in world football if he chooses to do so. Liam Rosenior made a name for himself in early roles at Derby County and Hull City, before taking over at Strasbourg in France in 2024.
His career trajectory continues to rise, leading his team to a seventh-place finish last season. Rosenior signed a new contract earlier this year, but his move will be relatively easy as he is employed by Bruco.
frank lampard
The idea of Frank Lampard returning to Stamford Bridge may seem ludicrous to some, but it is not unheard of. The legendary former midfielder has already managed twice at Stamford Bridge.
Since then, Lampard has certainly managed to restore his reputation. He has propelled Coventry City to the top of the Championship and looks likely to ensure the Sky Blues qualify for the Premier League.
Whatever happens, Lampard is likely to return to Stamford Bridge next season with either Chelsea or Coventry.
Brendan Rodgers
Brendan Rodgers, who also has links to west London, started his successful career within Chelsea’s academy. After rising through the ranks, he had notable spells at Swansea, Liverpool and Leicester, winning the FA Cup with the latter.
His two trophy-filled spell at Celtic could make him an attractive prospect for Chelsea. Now that Rodgers has left Celtic and his future is in doubt, he has no job.
eric ten hag
A somewhat unexpected choice, Erik ten Hag was sacked by Manchester United last season despite winning the League Cup and FA Cup with the Red Devils. His spell at Bayer Leverkusen in Germany ended in bizarre circumstances, as he was sacked after just two league games.
While this may deter Chelsea from attending, Ten Hag could emerge as a cost-effective option for the Blues with silverware potential.
