Chelsea are set to unveil Enzo Maresca as their new head coach on Monday, after the 44-year-old Italian has agreed to a five-year contract.
Maresca steps in to replace Mauricio Pochettino at Stamford Bridge after just a year. Pochettino’s tenure was marked by mixed results, and the club’s management decided to make a change in leadership.
Maresca makes the move from Leicester City, where he recently led the team back to the Premier League by winning the Championship. His success at Leicester showcased his tactical acumen and ability to build a cohesive team, qualities that Chelsea hope will translate to success at Stamford Bridge.
Maresca emerged as Chelsea’s top choice from a shortlist that included Brentford’s Thomas Frank, Ipswich’s Kieran McKenna, and Brighton’s Roberto De Zerbi. Each of these candidates brought unique strengths to the table, but Maresca’s vision and experience ultimately set him apart.
The Italian’s release clause from Leicester is reported to be between £8 million and £10 million. This significant investment reflects Chelsea’s confidence in Maresca’s ability to lead the team to new heights.
According to Sky Sports, Maresca will bring six members of his Leicester backroom staff with him, including former Chelsea goalkeeper Willy Caballero. This continuity in his coaching team is expected to provide stability and ensure a smooth transition.
The recruitment process was spearheaded by Chelsea’s co-sporting directors, Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart, under the guidance of co-owners Behdad Eghbali and Todd Boehly. Their collaborative approach was instrumental in securing Maresca’s appointment.
Winstanley and Stewart believe Maresca is the right man for Chelsea after being impressed by his detailed understanding of Chelsea’s squad and his vision for the team’s playing style. They were particularly struck by his ability to analyze the strengths and weaknesses of the current roster and his plans to maximize their potential.
Maresca’s focus on possession and positional play was a key factor in his selection. His tactical philosophy aligns with Chelsea’s long-term strategic goals and is expected to bring a dynamic and attractive style of play to the team.
He replaces Pochettino, who left the club by mutual consent, and is expected to bring a fresh tactical approach to Stamford Bridge. The club’s hierarchy is optimistic that Maresca’s appointment will mark the beginning of a successful new era for Chelsea.