Chelsea have issued a 326-word statement responding to Enzo Maresca's move to Manchester City, where he replaces Pep Guardiola. The statement notably omits Maresca's name entirely, despite his achievements including winning the FIFA Club World Cup for Chelsea. The club's anger is evident as they detail the disruption caused by his mid-season resignation.
Chelsea's Statement Details
The statement begins: "Chelsea FC appreciates the 2025/26 season was a hugely disappointing one for the Club and its supporters. A major contributing factor was the disruption caused as a result of changes that the Club was forced to make to the Head Coach position over the Christmas period." It explains that in autumn 2025, the club was informed Maresca might succeed Guardiola, and it became clear he was committed to that opportunity despite a long-term contract.
In December 2025, Maresca "unexpectedly and abruptly resigned," leaving Chelsea feeling let down. The club states: "No club wants to change its head coach midway through a season. However, in light of his decision not to continue fulfilling his responsibilities through to the end of the season, the Club was left with no choice but to protect our players, our supporters, and the Badge and accept his resignation."
Compensation and New Coach
A confidential settlement with Manchester City includes compensation, believed to be £17 million. Maresca also agreed to pay compensation to Chelsea. The statement ends by praising incoming manager Xabi Alonso: "In Xabi Alonso, we have a Manager who has an exceptional football mind and is a professional of the highest integrity."
Maresca's Response
Maresca posted on social media: "At the end of December 2025, I made the difficult decision to leave Chelsea. The decision was only mine. My resignation from Chelsea opened a path for me to join Manchester City, which is a club I knew very well. I am ecstatic that I have now joined Manchester City." He apologised for the disruption and thanked Chelsea, the owners, and fans.
