Chelsea have confirmed the appointment of Enzo Maresca as head coach on a five-year contract, with the club option of a further year. The 44-year-old Italian led Leicester City to the Championship title last season, his only full campaign as a head coach, and succeeds Mauricio Pochettino, who left by mutual consent two weeks ago.
Maresca becomes the fifth permanent manager under Chelsea owners Behdad Eghbali and Todd Boehly, following Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter, Frank Lampard, and Pochettino. The length of his contract is significant, as Pochettino was given only two years plus a one-year option, reflecting the owners' desire for stability and a different direction.
Maresca, who officially starts on 1 July, has embraced his role within the club's structure, focusing on coaching rather than seeking greater power over recruitment. Chelsea's ambitions, outlined in the programme for the final game of the season, include consistently winning or contending for the Premier League and regularly playing in the Champions League. The club will also participate in the revamped Club World Cup in summer 2025.
“To join Chelsea, one of the biggest clubs in the world, is a dream for any coach. It is why I am so excited by this opportunity,” Maresca said. “I look forward to working with a very talented group of players and staff to develop a team that continues the club’s tradition of success and makes our fans proud.”
Maresca counts Pep Guardiola among his influences, having worked under him at Manchester City as elite development squad manager and later as assistant during the treble-winning 2022-23 season. His playing style is characterised by patient possession and positional play, typically in a 4-3-3 formation, which Chelsea believe will suit their technically gifted squad.
Leicester expressed disappointment at Maresca's departure and will receive approximately £10 million in compensation for him and six members of his backroom staff who have also joined Chelsea. The arrivals include former Chelsea goalkeeper and assistant manager Willy Caballero, coach Danny Walker, and set-piece coach Bernardo Cueva from Brentford.
