Enzo Maresca: Chelsea manager departs Premier League club after 19 months
Manager Enzo Maresca has departed from Chelsea following a turbulent conclusion to his 19 months at the Premier League side.
The Italian Maresca faced boos from fans during the 2-2 draw against 15th-placed Bournemouth on Tuesday, which stretched the Blues’ dismal league streak to just one victory in nine matches, positioning them 15 points behind leaders Arsenal.
“With crucial objectives remaining across four competitions, including the chance for Champions League qualification, Enzo and the club agree that a change will provide the best opportunity to realign the season,” Chelsea stated.
In ambiguous comments after Chelsea’s 2-0 home victory over Everton on December 13, Maresca remarked that the 48 hours prior had been “the hardest” since he joined the team “due to the lack of support from many around me and the team.”
The 45-year-old clarified that his remarks were not directed towards fans but has chosen not to expand on them or specify the nature of his discontent.
Enzo Maresca: What led to the manager’s exit from Chelsea?
According to the Guardian, Maresca experienced a “complete breakdown in his relationship” with Chelsea, who reportedly found his tactical choices and off-field behavior to be “testing their patience.”
Assistant manager Willy Caballero mentioned that Maresca had been unwell for two days when the Argentinian took on media responsibilities following the draw with the Cherries, but the report claimed that Maresca had chosen not to appear as he contemplated his future after becoming dissatisfied with aspects of the Chelsea project, implying that his absence led to “increased tensions.”
Reports indicate Chelsea was contemplating sacking Maresca in January if the team’s poor form persisted. They are currently positioned for a Champions League knockout phase play-off place, having secured 10 points from their first six matches in the European competition, two points shy of the automatic last-16 positions and four points clear of elimination spots.
More to follow
Published: 2026-01-01 12:43:00
source: www.101greatgoals.com
