Leicester City have initiated contact with their former promotion-winning manager Enzo Maresca regarding a spectacular and unexpected return to the club. This development follows the Foxes' decision to part ways with Marti Cifuentes, as the team struggles during their first season back in the Championship.
Maresca's Chelsea Exit and Leicester's Search
The Italian tactician, who masterminded Leicester's return to the Premier League during the 2023-24 campaign, was dismissed by Chelsea on New Year's Day after an turbulent eighteen-month tenure at Stamford Bridge. Leicester, having installed Andy King as interim manager following Cifuentes' departure, are now pursuing Maresca to take charge on a short-term basis until the conclusion of the current season.
High Regard and Future Prospects
Leicester's hierarchy are acutely aware that the forty-five-year-old coach is held in exceptionally high esteem within football circles. Maresca has been linked with the managerial vacancy at Tottenham Hotspur and is believed to have influential admirers at Manchester City, should Pep Guardiola decide to conclude his trophy-laden reign at the Etihad Stadium.
Consequently, Leicester are not looking to secure Maresca's services beyond the summer. This is despite his remarkable success at the club, where he was named Championship 'Manager of the Month' on four separate occasions, even though his relationship with the Foxes faithful was not always harmonious.
Incentives and Promotion Hopes
The club have presented a lucrative, incentive-based package to Maresca, acknowledging that he would be unlikely to commit to a longer-term arrangement. This is due to interest from clubs both in Italy and within England for the highly-regarded coach's signature.
Leicester are hopeful of a positive response from Maresca as they have not ruled out mounting a late challenge for a promotion play-off position. The Foxes' ambitions remain alive, albeit requiring a significant upturn in form.
Interim Struggles Continue
Andy King oversaw his first match in temporary charge this past Saturday, but was unable to inspire an immediate turnaround. Leicester suffered a disappointing home defeat to Charlton Athletic, underscoring the urgency for a permanent managerial appointment.
The potential return of Enzo Maresca represents a bold move by Leicester City as they seek to stabilise their season and reignite their promotion aspirations under a familiar and proven leader.
