Chelsea confirm they have parted ways with head coach Enzo Maresca following a disappointing run of form in the Premier League, just days before the club’s crucial clash against Manchester City. The decision comes after growing concerns over results and internal disagreements at Stamford Bridge.
According to Mediaplusng.com, Maresca’s exit follows a stretch of just one win in seven league matches, a run that leaves Chelsea sitting fifth on the Premier League table. Although the club remains in contention for European qualification, sources indicate that results alone do not explain the separation.
Chelsea announce the decision after talks with Maresca, describing the outcome as a “mutual agreement” that a change is needed to help the team get back on track. The club stops short of calling it a dismissal, stressing that both parties believe a new direction offers the best chance for improvement.
Mediaplusng.com reports that tensions between Maresca and the club’s hierarchy play a major role in the decision. Club sources point to concerns over the manager’s public criticism of ownership and disagreements over medical advice and player workload management, which reportedly strain relationships behind the scenes.
During his 18-month spell at Chelsea, Maresca experiences both highs and lows. He guides the club back into the UEFA Champions League by finishing fourth in the league and also wins the Conference League and the inaugural Club World Cup. However, recent performances and growing unrest among fans overshadow these achievements.
The situation reaches a boiling point after Chelsea’s 2-2 draw against Bournemouth, where supporters boo the team off the pitch. Maresca also faces chants from fans following the substitution of key midfielder Cole Palmer, further highlighting the tension between the coach and the supporters.
Maresca’s absence from the post-match press conference after that game raises further questions, with the club later stating he was unwell. Sources, however, suggest the episode reflects deeper internal issues rather than a one-off incident.
Chelsea have yet to confirm who will take charge for the upcoming match against Manchester City. The club announces that Under-21s head coach Calum McFarlane will address the media ahead of the game, hinting at a temporary solution.
Looking ahead, Chelsea begin the search for a long-term replacement. Reports suggest Liam Rosenior, currently in charge of BlueCo-owned Strasbourg, is under consideration, while other names linked to the role are reportedly not in contention.
Maresca joined Chelsea in July 2024 on a contract set to run until 2029, with an option for an extra year. Despite speculation linking him to other top clubs, sources insist these links remain purely speculative.
Chelsea now turn their focus to stabilising performances and restoring confidence as the season enters a critical phase, with fans and players hoping the change will spark a return to consistent results.
