Chelsea Football Club have been plunged into a fresh search for a manager after parting company with Enzo Maresca on New Year's Day. The Italian's departure, confirmed in a club statement, comes after a poor run of form and opens the door for potential successors, with former Barcelona boss Xavi emerging as a prominent candidate.
Maresca's Sudden Exit at Stamford Bridge
The club announced that Maresca, 45, had left after less than two years in charge. His tenure, which saw Chelsea win the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup, ended amidst a significant downturn in results. The team has managed just one win in their last seven games, a sequence that culminated in boos from supporters following a 2-2 draw with Bournemouth.
Maresca had hinted at internal tensions weeks earlier, describing a 48-hour period after a win over Everton as the "worst" since he joined the club due to a lack of support. The mutual decision to part ways was framed as a move to get the season, where Chelsea remain in four competitions, back on track.
Xavi's Open Admiration for the Premier League
Among the names linked with the now-vacant position is Xavi Hernández. The iconic Spanish midfielder has been out of management since leaving Barcelona in May 2024 and has previously expressed a clear desire to work in England.
In an interview with The Athletic earlier this year, Xavi stated, "I'd love to work in the Premier League because I love the passion there." He contrasted this with the environment in Spain, which he described as being "too much about the result." Xavi emphasised he is seeking a long-term project, ideally spanning four years, but remains patient for the right opportunity.
Rosenior Emerges as Frontrunner
Despite Xavi's availability and his place among the bookmakers' favourites, current indications suggest Liam Rosenior is the leading candidate. Rosenior is the head coach of Strasbourg, the French club owned by Chelsea's parent company, BlueCo. This existing connection makes him a strategically logical appointment for the Chelsea hierarchy.
Whoever takes the helm faces an immediate challenge, with a Premier League clash against Manchester City looming this Sunday. The new manager will inherit a squad with quality but one urgently requiring a spark to revive their campaign for Champions League qualification and silverware.
