Chelsea have parted company with head coach Enzo Maresca after less than two years at the helm, with the Italian's contract terminated on New Year's Day. The decision follows a poor run of form that saw the Blues win just one of their last seven Premier League matches, culminating in a 2-2 draw with Bournemouth on Tuesday night.
Tensions had been building after Maresca made critical comments about the club's hierarchy earlier this month, indicating a breakdown in the relationship. Following a 2-0 win over Everton, he described the previous 48 hours as 'the worst since I joined' due to a lack of support. He was subsequently booed after the Bournemouth draw, and assistant coach Willy Caballero handled post-match media duties as Maresca reportedly felt unwell.
In a statement, Chelsea thanked Maresca for leading the team to UEFA Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup triumphs, but said a change was necessary to give the squad the best chance of achieving key objectives, including Champions League qualification. The club currently sit fifth in the Premier League, three points off the top four.
Sunday's crucial clash with Manchester City now looms, with Moises Caicedo suspended after picking up a yellow card against Bournemouth. A hectic run of five matches in 13 days follows, including trips to Fulham and Charlton, and home games against Arsenal in the Carabao Cup and Brentford.
Early contenders for the vacant managerial post include former Hull City boss Liam Rosenior, currently impressing at Strasbourg under the Blues' ownership model, as well as Cesc Fabregas, Andoni Iraola, Oliver Glasner, and Xavi.
