Chelsea Football Club is on the verge of another managerial upheaval, with Enzo Maresca reportedly facing the sack just months into the 2025/26 season. Tensions behind the scenes at Stamford Bridge have reached a boiling point, prompting the club's ownership to consider a drastic change.
Maresca's Chelsea Tenure Nears Abrupt End
According to reports, Chelsea could part ways with Maresca within days, potentially before the team's next fixture. The Italian's position has become increasingly precarious following a dismal run of form, with the Blues winning just one of their last seven matches across all competitions. This poor sequence has undermined their push for a top-four Premier League finish, despite the squad remaining well-placed in the Champions League.
The club's ownership, led by Todd Boehly, is no stranger to mid-season changes, having previously dismissed Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter, and Mauricio Pochettino. Maresca now appears set to become the latest casualty. Despite the recent struggles, the Chelsea job remains a highly attractive proposition due to the club's financial power, a young squad brimming with talent like Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez, and Cole Palmer, and their ongoing involvement in elite competitions.
Five Contenders for the Stamford Bridge Hotseat
Should Maresca depart, Chelsea's hierarchy will move swiftly to identify a successor. Several high-profile names are already being linked with the vacancy.
Xavi: The Bookmakers' Favourite
The former Barcelona maestro is currently out of work, making him a financially straightforward and attractive option. Xavi proved his managerial credentials by guiding Barcelona to a La Liga title, and he may view Chelsea as the perfect platform to demonstrate his abilities outside of Catalonia.
Liam Rosenior: The In-House Option
Currently impressing at Strasbourg—a sister club under the BlueCo umbrella—Liam Rosenior represents a logical internal candidate. His work in France, including guiding Strasbourg close to European places and topping their Europa Conference League group, has enhanced his reputation. He has also revived the form of former Chelsea defender Ben Chilwell.
Oliver Glasner: The Proven Winner
Oliver Glasner's stock has soared since his arrival in England. The Crystal Palace manager led the Eagles to FA Cup glory last season and added the Community Shield this term, all while operating under significant player sales. His prior Europa League win with Eintracht Frankfurt underscores his trophy-winning pedigree, though frustrations over transfer ambition at Palace could make him open to a move.
Unai Emery: The Long-Shot
Aston Villa's Spanish architect, Unai Emery, continues to outperform expectations in the Premier League. While he appears settled at Villa Park, the allure of leading a club with Chelsea's resources might tempt him. However, prising him away from a rival mid-season is considered a near-impossible task.
Cesc Fabregas: The Romantic Return
A modern coach and former Chelsea title-winner, Cesc Fabregas is carving out an impressive reputation at Como in Serie A. He has the Italian minnows in sixth place, securing notable wins over Juventus. His tactical acumen and deep connection to the club make him a fascinating, if ambitious, candidate.
A Critical Decision for Chelsea's Future
The potential dismissal of Enzo Maresca underscores the relentless pressure and short-term demands at the highest level of football. Chelsea's next appointment will be crucial in determining whether they can harness the undeniable potential within their squad or face further instability. The coming days at Stamford Bridge are set to be decisive, with the club's direction for the remainder of the season hanging in the balance.
