Chelsea are searching for a new manager after parting company with Enzo Maresca on New Year's Day. The club has endured a downturn in results and serious tensions behind the scenes, prompting the ownership led by Todd Boehly to seek another head coach. Maresca follows Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter and Mauricio Pochettino as the latest casualty at Stamford Bridge.
Despite recent struggles – just one win in seven matches – Chelsea remain in contention for a top-four Premier League finish and are well placed in the Champions League. The squad is young and talented, with Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez, Cole Palmer and Estevao offering significant potential. The club's willingness to invest makes the job attractive, even mid-season.
Bookmakers' favourite is Xavi, the former Barcelona manager who is currently out of work, meaning no compensation fee would be required. Xavi won La Liga with Barcelona and is considered one of the great football brains of his generation, though he has more to prove in the dugout.
Liam Rosenior, currently at Strasbourg under the BlueCo banner, is another option. He has impressed in Ligue 1, guiding Strasbourg close to European spots and securing a credible draw at PSG. Former Chelsea left-back Ben Chilwell has rediscovered his form under Rosenior in France.
Oliver Glasner has enhanced his reputation since joining Crystal Palace, winning the FA Cup and Community Shield despite losing key players. He previously won the Europa League with Eintracht Frankfurt but may feel he has taken Palace as far as he can. Unai Emery continues to outperform resources at Aston Villa, but prising him away mid-season appears near impossible.
Cesc Fabregas, a former Chelsea player, is making a name for himself at Como in Serie A. The Italian minnows sit sixth, with wins over Juventus among their scalps. Fabregas's tactical acumen and familiarity with the club make him a potential candidate should he seek a top job.
