Enzo Maresca Steps Down as Chelsea Head Coach, Blues Launch Manager Hunt

By Francis Onyach - Reporter

Kenya, January 1 2026 - Chelsea have announced that Enzo Maresca has stepped down as head coach of the Premier League club, bringing an end to his 18-month tenure at Stamford Bridge amid mounting pressure and growing tensions within the club’s hierarchy. The decision marks the beginning of a new managerial search for the London side as they seek to steady the ship in a challenging season.

The Italian coach, 45, was confirmed as Chelsea boss in June 2024, signing a long-term deal after leaving Leicester City, where he had led the Foxes back to the Premier League. Maresca’s arrival was initially met with optimism, given his tactical acumen and experience under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. Chelsea’s management had hoped his progressive style could help rebuild the club’s fortunes after several managerial changes.

During his time in west London, Maresca delivered notable success, including winning the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup, as well as guiding the Blues back into the Champions League places, a first for the club since 2022.

However, recent results have sparked widespread frustration. Chelsea have managed just one win in their last seven Premier League games, a slump that saw fans unleash vocal criticism and boos during home fixtures, particularly following a disappointing draw with Bournemouth. The mounting pressure culminated in reports of a serious breakdown in Maresca’s relationship with the club’s board and sporting directors.

In December, Maresca publicly hinted at internal frustrations, describing a spell as the “worst 48 hours” of his time at Chelsea and suggesting a lack of support, remarks that fuelled speculation about his future before the club eventually confirmed his departure.

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Chelsea’s leadership now finds itself facing a pivotal moment. With the club sitting fifth in the Premier League, well adrift of title contenders and potential Champions League qualification spots, and with crucial fixtures ahead, the choice of the next manager will be key to the club’s ambitions for the remainder of the season.

Early reports suggest Liam Rosenior, currently in charge of Strasbourg, is emerging as an early favourite to succeed Maresca, having impressed Chelsea’s hierarchy with his tactical nous and leadership. Other names, including those from the Premier League and European candidates, are also being considered as the club compiles its shortlist.

Chelsea is expected to move quickly to appoint a new manager before a crucial match against Manchester City, with loyalty to Maresca’s long contract weighed against the need for immediate improvement on the pitch.