Chelsea have parted company with head coach Enzo Maresca after less than two years in charge, following a deterioration in his relationship with the club's hierarchy. The Italian’s tenure, which began in summer 2024, came to an end on New Year's Day amid a poor run of form that saw the Blues win just one of their last seven Premier League matches.
The final straw was a 2-2 draw with Bournemouth on Tuesday night, after which Maresca was booed by fans. Assistant coach Willy Caballero handled post-match media duties after Maresca reportedly felt too unwell to speak. The result leaves Chelsea fifth in the table, three points off the top four, with a crucial match against Manchester City looming.
Maresca had earlier criticised the club's hierarchy, describing the previous 48 hours as “the worst” since his arrival due to a lack of support. In a statement, Chelsea thanked him for winning the UEFA Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup but said a change gives the team the best chance of getting the season back on track.
The search for a successor is underway, with early contenders including Liam Rosenior, Cesc Fabregas, Andoni Iraola, Oliver Glasner and Xavi. Chelsea face a hectic schedule of five matches in 13 days, starting with a trip to Manchester City.
