Enzo Maresca has parted ways with Chelsea on New Year's Day after less than two years in charge, leaving the club searching for a new manager. The Italian's departure follows a run of just one win in seven games, with tensions boiling over after a 2-2 draw against Bournemouth on Tuesday.
Maresca had hinted at unrest after a 2-0 win over Everton last month, describing the subsequent 48 hours as the worst since joining the club. Chelsea's statement thanked him for successes including 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.
Among the candidates to replace him is Barcelona legend Xavi, who has been out of work since leaving the Camp Nou in May 2024. The Spaniard has previously expressed a desire to work in the Premier League, telling The Athletic: 'I'd love to work in the Premier League because I love the passion there.'
However, current frontrunner for the role is Liam Rosenior, head coach of Strasbourg, a club owned by Chelsea's parent company. Whoever takes over will inherit a side still in four competitions but in need of a revival after a stalled season.
