Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca is on the verge of a New Year’s Day exit following a breakdown in relations with club leadership and a poor run of recent Premier League results.
Enzo Maresca is “highly likely” to depart Chelsea this Thursday following a “complete breakdown in his relationship with the club.”
Despite securing both the UEFA Conference League and FIFA Club World Club titles during his tenure, the Italian manager has faced mounting pressure after a dismal December run.
With only one win in their last seven Premier League outings, the Blues have slipped to fifth place, trailing league leaders Arsenal by 15 points.
Emergency talks are currently underway at Stamford Bridge to determine the terms of Maresca’s exit.
Reports suggest the 45-year-old is unlikely to lead the team in Sunday’s high-stakes clash against Manchester City.
While Maresca reportedly wants to leave, negotiations are complicated by uncertainty regarding a potential payoff. His departure would mark the fifth permanent managerial change since the Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital takeover was finalized in mid-2022.
Strasbourg head coach Liam Rosenior has emerged as a “shock” internal solution to replace Maresca.
The 41-year-old has impressed at Chelsea’s sister club, though any move depends on Strasbourg finding a suitable successor.
Other high-profile candidates currently linked to the role include Como’s Cesc Fabregas, Crystal Palace boss Oliver Glasner, and former Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez.
The hierarchy is expected to move quickly to stabilize the squad before the January window progresses.