Enzo Maresca speaks out for the first time after leaving Chelsea

Enzo Maresca has given his initial comments following his departure as Chelsea’s head coach. The Italian manager left Stamford Bridge on New Year’s Day, under six months after securing the FIFA Club World Cup with the club.

Although Chelsea’s recent form has been poor, the team still showed positive signs this season and ranked fifth in the Premier League at the time Maresca left. However, the 45-year-old coach reportedly began questioning those “at the top” within the club’s hierarchy, leading Chelsea to choose separation rather than continuing to manage internal conflicts.

During the transition period, U21 coach Calum McFarlane was appointed interim manager and directly led the team to a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Manchester City. On January 6, Chelsea confirmed Liam Rosenior — former Strasbourg and Hull City coach — as Maresca’s official successor.

On Instagram, Maresca wrote:

“My journey with Chelsea began during the Conference League qualifiers. I leave with inner peace after departing such a prestigious club like Chelsea, which deserves to be in its rightful position.

I want to thank all Chelsea fans for their support over the past 18 months, a crucial factor in qualifying for the Champions League, winning the Conference League, and lifting the Club World Cup.

These victories will always hold a special place in my heart. A special thanks to the players who stood by me throughout this incredible journey. I wish everyone who shared these moments with me success in the remainder of the season and beyond. Thank you, Chelsea, from me and my family.”.

Before joining Chelsea, Maresca enjoyed a successful spell at Leicester City and then took over the hot seat at Stamford Bridge from Mauricio Pochettino. He also served as an assistant to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City and was considered a potential candidate to succeed the legendary coach at Etihad Stadium.

Recently, Maresca was cautiously linked with Manchester United after Ruben Amorim’s departure from Old Trafford. However, the Red Devils prioritize appointing an interim coach until the end of the season before exploring long-term options.

Manchester United is also not Maresca’s priority. The Chelsea coach is reportedly eyeing the managerial position at Manchester City. According to Sky Sports, Pep Guardiola is likely to leave Man City after the 2025/26 season, and the Etihad club has already initiated contact with Maresca as a possible replacement for the Spanish coach.