Chelsea Football Club is poised to dismiss manager Enzo Maresca later today, Thursday 1st January 2026, following a total collapse in his relationship with the club's decision-makers.
Breakdown Leads to Exit
According to a report from The Guardian, the situation at Stamford Bridge has become untenable, with Maresca not expected to be in the dugout for Chelsea's crucial away fixture against Manchester City this Sunday. The Italian coach's position has been under intense scrutiny for weeks, but the end appears to have come swiftly after a series of concerning incidents.
The cracks began to show publicly after Chelsea's victory over Everton. Despite the win, Maresca revealed he had endured the "worst 48 hours" of his tenure at the club. That result proved to be a rare bright spot, as it stands as Chelsea's only win in their last seven matches across all competitions.
Final Straw and Search Begins
The final act came on Tuesday night, following a draw with Bournemouth. Maresca did not attend his mandatory post-match press conference, an act that signalled the deep rift between the coach and the club. With the relationship irreparable, the Chelsea board have immediately shifted focus to identifying his successor.
The club's form has been a major cause for concern. That solitary win against Everton is buried within a dismal run of form that has left the team languishing in the Premier League table and increased pressure on the hierarchy to act.
Contenders for the Chelsea Hotseat
With Maresca's departure now considered a formality, speculation is rife about who will take over at one of football's most demanding jobs. Early betting odds have thrown up some intriguing and high-profile names.
The current favourites include:
- Diego Simeone (Atletico Madrid) - 25/1
- Regis Le Bris (Lorient) - 25/1
- Simone Inzaghi (Inter Milan) - 25/1
- Jurgen Klopp (Unattached) - 25/1
The list also features former Arsenal and Barcelona personnel, alongside other established Premier League figures, highlighting the global search now underway. The swift move to replace Maresca underscores Chelsea's desire for immediate stability as they navigate a difficult season.
All eyes will now be on Stamford Bridge for an official announcement, expected before the day is out, which will draw a line under Enzo Maresca's brief and turbulent reign as Chelsea manager.
