“After One and a half unforgettable years, it’s time to say goodbye” – Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca officially resigns as he posts an emotional farewell message on Instagram
Chelsea’s former manager Enzo Maresca offered little explanation in his last public comments before departing the club. The organization confirmed the Italian coach’s departure on January 1st, thanking the 45-year-old for his service.
The manager’s time at Chelsea ended before completing even two years of what was originally a five-year deal extending through 2029. During his period with the club, he secured victories in both the UEFA Conference League and Club World Cup competitions.
Yet in recent times, tensions grew between Maresca and Chelsea’s leadership, making his continuation impossible. The team’s poor form—just a single victory across seven league fixtures—saw them drop far behind Arsenal in the championship pursuit.
After drawing 2-2 against Bournemouth on their home ground, Chelsea found themselves only five points ahead of Brighton, who occupied 14th place. Unable to conduct his customary post-game media session due to sickness, Maresca’s last public statements came beforehand.
Questioned about the team’s difficulties in controlling matches at their home stadium—though they remained in contention for top-four placement and Champions League entry—the manager gave evasive answers.
Speaking after the Aston Villa loss, with some discussion focused on the forthcoming Bournemouth fixture, Maresca commented: “I’m uncertain. We must figure out the cause, because when patterns repeat themselves, they’re not coincidental.
“We need to discover why we’re consistently conceding goals and losing our grip on games, regardless of the result.”
Regarding Champions League qualification hopes, Maresca stated: “That’s our current goal. Tonight’s match doesn’t truly show the 10-point gap between Villa and ourselves.
“We must stay positive and hope to narrow the distance with the teams above us.” Yet Maresca wouldn’t get the opportunity to address his team’s home struggles, as Chelsea confirmed his exit on New Year’s Day.
The London club’s statement read: “Chelsea Football Club and manager Enzo Maresca have separated.
“Under Enzo’s leadership, the squad achieved success in the UEFA Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup. These accomplishments remain significant in our recent history, and we appreciate his service.
“With important goals remaining across four tournaments, including Champions League qualification, both Enzo and the Club feel a leadership change offers the best opportunity to salvage the season. We extend our best wishes to Enzo going forward.”
Central to Maresca’s recent comments about experiencing his “most difficult two days” was reportedly a conflict with Chelsea’s health professionals. The manager allegedly played certain players despite medical staff recommendations against doing so, creating internal tensions.
Additionally, conversations occurred between Maresca’s representatives and Manchester City, sparking speculation about Pep Guardiola potentially leaving City after the current season. Though Maresca properly disclosed these communications to Chelsea as his contract mandated, club leadership considered it an unwelcome distraction during a critical period.
Amid this instability regarding his position, Maresca’s interactions with journalists appeared to worsen. Chelsea’s next match will be Sunday against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium.
