Chelsea’s management is set to meet today to discuss the future of Enzo Maresca. The team hasn’t won in their last three matches, with their latest game ending in a 2-2 draw against Bournemouth, who are currently in 15th place. Chelsea sits fifth in the Premier League, trailing leaders Arsenal by 15 points and only five points ahead of 14th-placed Brighton.
Maresca, who earned accolades as the manager of the month in November, stirred concerns recently. After a home victory against Everton on December 13, he mentioned that the previous days were his “worst since joining the club,” citing a lack of support from some sources. Despite this, he has a solid five-year contract at Chelsea, running until 2029.
Interestingly, reports suggest that Maresca is a top candidate for Manchester City if Pep Guardiola decides to leave next summer, even though Guardiola’s contract extends until 2027. The two clubs will face off at the Etihad this Sunday.
Maresca has prior experience with Manchester City, having led their under-21 team in the 2020-21 season before returning as a first-team assistant in 2022. While he is a strong contender for any future vacancies, he’s not the only name in the mix.
Despite the swirling rumors, Maresca reassured Chelsea supporters after their Carabao Cup win against Cardiff City on December 16, stating he would “absolutely” remain at Stamford Bridge next season and dismissed the Manchester City connections as mere speculation.
He took the helm at Chelsea in June 2024, coming off a successful stint with Leicester City, where he led them to the Championship title. In his first season with Chelsea, the club captured both the Conference League and the newly expanded Club World Cup.
Maresca is the sixth manager to lead Chelsea since Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital took over in 2022. This turnover includes notable names like Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter, and Bruno Saltor. Former USMNT coach Mauricio Pochettino also had a brief tenure, leaving after a sixth-place finish last summer.
As fan reactions unfold, many are curious about the club’s direction. Social media has seen a mix of hope and skepticism regarding Maresca’s future, reflecting the passionate views of Chelsea fans. The unfolding story at Chelsea continues to capture attention, highlighting the challenges and pressures managers face in the competitive Premier League. For more insights on managerial changes in sports, you can check BBC Sport’s analysis.
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Chelsea, Premier League
