Written by Amy Tuscher
📷 - Getty Images & BBC Sport
Enzo Maresca and Chelsea Part Ways
It was breaking news this morning that has sent shockwaves through the footballing world on the very first day of 2026, Chelsea Football Club has officially parted company with head coach Enzo Maresca.
The Italian’s departure follows an 18-month tenure that saw the highest of highs and, ultimately, a breakdown in relations that became untenable. As the Blues look to "get their season back on track," we dive into the friction, the silver, and the revolving door at Stamford Bridge.
Whilst Chelsea currently sit fifth in the Premier League, the reasons for Maresca's exit extend far beyond the league table. Reasons for his departure are alleged to partially down to;
- The "Worst 48 Hours" Outburst: The beginning of the end can be traced back to mid-December. After a 2-0 win over Everton, Maresca publicly claimed he had endured his "worst 48 hours" at the club, citing a lack of support from "many people." This public airing of grievances reportedly infuriated the Chelsea hierarchy.
- The Medical Feud: Internal reports suggest a significant rift between Maresca and the club’s medical department. Tensions peaked when Maresca allegedly ignored medical advice regarding player return-to-play protocols, specifically concerning star player Cole Palmer’s workload management causing further injuries.
- The Manchester City Shadow: Rumours of exploratory talks between Maresca and Manchester City—regarding a potential future as Pep Guardiola’s successor—created an "unnecessary distraction" that the Chelsea board felt compromised his commitment to the project.
- Waning Results: A dismal December saw the Blues win just one of their last seven Premier League games. The final straw was a 2-2 draw at home to Bournemouth, where Maresca was booed by the Stamford Bridge faithful.
Despite the acrimonious split, Maresca’s reign was far from a failure on the pitch. He brought European and Global silverware back to West London, proving that his tactical "Maresca-ball" could work at the highest level.
His achievements included:
- UEFA Conference League | 2025 | Real Betis (4-1)
- FIFA Club World Cup | 2025 | Paris Saint-Germain (3-0)
Under his guidance, Chelsea also secured a fourth-place finish in the 2024/25 season, successfully returning the club to the UEFA Champions League.
Maresca’s departure reinforces Chelsea's reputation as the most volatile hot seat in world football.
In the last decade (2016–2026), the club has been led by 10 different managers (including interim and permanent appointments).
* Guus Hiddink (Interim, 2015–2016)
* Antonio Conte (2016–2018)
* Maurizio Sarri (2018–2019)
* Frank Lampard (2019–2021)
* Thomas Tuchel (2021–2022)
* Graham Potter (2022–2023)
* Bruno Saltor (Interim, 2023)
* Frank Lampard (Interim, 2023)
* Mauricio Pochettino (2023–2024)
* Enzo Maresca (2024–2026)
Who is Next in Line?
With Maresca now out, the Chelsea board is reportedly keen on a swift appointment. Whilst the "revolving door" at Chelsea has historically swung toward blockbuster names, the current hierarchy seems focused on a specific profile: young, tactically flexible, and ready to work within the BlueCo multi-club structure.
The current candidates below are expected favourites to take over at Stamford Bridge:
1. Liam Rosenior (The Clear Favorite)
The 41-year-old Englishman has emerged as the odds-on favorite (4/9 or 1/2) to make the internal move from Chelsea’s sister club, Strasbourg.
- The Appeal: Rosenior is highly regarded for his communication skills and his ability to nurture young talent—a core pillar of the Chelsea project.
- The Connection: Having already impressed the owners within the BlueCo system, he is seen as the "path of least resistance" for a mid-season transition.
2. Cesc Fàbregas (The Romantic Choice)
A return for the former Chelsea midfield maestro would be a massive hit with the fans. Currently managing Como in Serie A, Fàbregas is listed at 7/1 odds.
- The Appeal: He understands the club's DNA and has earned plaudits for his progressive, possession-based style in Italy.
- The Catch: Getting him out of his project at Como midway through the season would require significant compensation and a strong persuasive push.
3. Oliver Glasner
The Austrian manager, who recently guided Crystal Palace to success, is a strong tactical contender at 10/1.
- The Appeal: Known for his high-intensity "heavy metal" football and defensive solidity, Glasner is viewed as someone who could provide the immediate structure Chelsea currently lacks.
4. Xavi Hernández
The former Barcelona boss remains a high-profile free agent and is priced at 12/1.
- The Appeal: Xavi has already expressed an interest in managing in the Premier League. His trophy-winning experience at a high-pressure club like Barça makes him the most "proven" name on the shortlist.
Chelsea fans will be hoping that the next appointment will provide much needed stability at Stamford Bridge for the future.
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