Chelsea released an angry official statement after Enzo Maresca left the club to join Manchester City, with the Blues receiving £17 million in compensation. The Premier League club accused Maresca of breaching his contract by holding talks with City in December about replacing Pep Guardiola.
Statement Details
Chelsea's statement read: 'Chelsea FC appreciates the 2025/26 season was a hugely disappointing one for the Club and its supporters. A major contributing factor was the disruption caused as a result of changes that the Club was forced to make to the Head Coach position over the Christmas period.'
The club explained that in autumn 2025, they were informed by Maresca that there might be an opportunity to succeed Guardiola at the end of the season. 'It became clear to us that it was his strong desire to succeed Guardiola and that he was fully committed to pursuing the opportunity, despite the fact he was under a long-term contract which he had no right to terminate,' the statement added.
Resignation and Compensation
In December 2025, Maresca unexpectedly resigned, leaving Chelsea with no choice but to accept. The club stated: 'No club wants to change its head coach midway through a season. However, in light of his decision not to continue fulfilling his responsibilities through to the end of the season, the Club was left with no choice but to protect our players, our supporters, and the Badge and accept his resignation.'
A confidential settlement was reached with Manchester City, including payment of £17 million compensation. A separate confidential settlement was also reached with Maresca, under which he will pay compensation to Chelsea.
Maresca's Response
Maresca issued his own statement on social media: 'At the time of December 2025, I made the difficult decision to leave Chelsea. The decision was only mine. My resignation from Chelsea opened a path for me to join Manchester City, which is a club I knew very well. I am ecstatic I have now joined Manchester City.'
He added: 'I recognise that my departure from Chelsea in the middle of the season caused disruption for the club and I apologise for that. It was neither my intention nor my wish. I was treated well by everyone at Chelsea and together we achieved great success and memories that I will always treasure. I am grateful to the club, the owners and the fans for giving me the opportunity.'
Looking Ahead
Chelsea concluded their statement by looking forward to next season under Xabi Alonso: 'In Xabi Alonso, we have a Manager who has an exceptional football mind and is a professional of the highest integrity. He has all the attributes to deliver the success the Club's supporters deserve and expect.'
