Chelsea Football Club shocked fans on New Year’s Day in the year 2026. The club relieved head coach Enzo Maresca of his duties after an 18 month tenure with the club. This came after the team failed to perform well and experienced poor relations with the head coach.
Early Career and Rise
Enzo Maresca began his coaching journey after a playing career with clubs like Juventus and Sevilla. He gained notice as an assistant to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. Later, Maresca led Leicester City to Premier League promotion in 2024.
Additionally, his tactical style impressed many. Clubs saw him as a rising star in management.
Appointment at Chelsea
Chelsea appointed Maresca in June 2024 to replace Mauricio Pochettino. He signed a five-year deal with an option for extension. Fans welcomed his arrival with hope for stability. Moreover Maresca aimed to implement a possession based game. He focused on youth development and squad integration.
Achievements and Trophies
Maresca delivered success quickly. He guided Chelsea to win the UEFA Conference League with a 4-1 victory over Real Betis in May 2025. The team also claimed the FIFA Club World Cup by beating PSG 3-0 in July 2025.
Furthermore, Chelsea finished fourth in the Premier League last season. This secured Champions League qualification after a two-year absence.
Recent Struggles
However form dipped in recent months. Chelsea won only one of their last seven Premier League games. The team sat fifth in the table, nine points behind leaders. Tensions grew after a 2-2 draw with Bournemouth. Fans booed substitutions, and Maresca called a period his “worst 48 hours” at the club.
The Departure
Events unfolded rapidly on January 1, 2026. Chelsea held emergency talks and announced the split. The club stated that change would help achieve goals like Champions League spots. Maresca said goodbye to the players that morning. He left with three-and-a-half years on his contract.
Search for Replacement
Now Chelsea seeks a new manager swiftly. Liam Rosenior from partner club Strasbourg leads the candidates. The club hopes to appoint someone before Sunday’s match against Manchester City. An interim coach may step in if needed. Upcoming fixtures include Fulham and Arsenal games.
Legacy and Impact
Despite the exit, Maresca’s tenure brought trophies and progress. He managed 92 games, the longest under current owners. However, uncertainty continues at Chelsea after 2022.
