Chelsea Football Club is poised for a dramatic managerial change, with Enzo Maresca ‘highly likely’ to leave his post as head coach on Thursday, 1st January 2026. The Italian’s relationship with the club’s hierarchy is reported to have completely broken down, casting his future into immediate doubt.
A Fractured Relationship at Stamford Bridge
The crisis stems from a series of incidents that have left a significant rift between the manager and the Chelsea board. According to a report from The Guardian, tensions began to surface publicly following Chelsea’s victory over Everton. Despite the win, Maresca described having endured the “worst 48 hours” of his tenure, comments which reportedly left club officials “baffled” and strained relations.
Matters worsened after Chelsea’s recent 2-2 draw with Bournemouth. Maresca did not attend the mandatory post-match press conference, with the club initially citing illness. However, journalist Ben Jacobs reported that the manager was not sick but was instead “in the middle of making a decision as he considers his options at the club.” This act of defiance is understood to have been the final straw for the Chelsea leadership.
The Shock Candidate Lined Up for Succession
With Maresca’s departure now appearing inevitable, attention has turned to his potential replacement. In a surprising twist, Strasbourg manager Liam Rosenior has been named as a leading contender to take the helm at Stamford Bridge. The 41-year-old Englishman is described as “one solution” being considered by the Chelsea hierarchy.
Rosenior has built a strong reputation during his time in France with Strasbourg, impressing in what is only his second full-time managerial role. His previous experience includes a stint at Hull City between November 2022 and May 2024, where he was surprisingly dismissed despite being nominated for the EFL Championship Manager of the Season award. He also managed Derby County on an interim basis in 2022 under difficult circumstances.
What Happens Next for Chelsea and Maresca?
The immediate future remains uncertain. Maresca, whose contract runs until 2029 with an option for a further year, is said to want to leave. However, it is unclear whether he will resign or be dismissed, a decision that could affect a substantial financial pay-off. Chelsea are next scheduled to play against Manchester City on Sunday afternoon, and it is now expected that Maresca will not be in the dugout for that crucial fixture.
The club’s form has been poor, with only one win in their last seven games across all competitions. While the board was initially prepared to give Maresca time to turn results around, the breakdown in communication and his recent actions have accelerated the decision-making process. Chelsea now face a pivotal moment as they seek to appoint a new leader to steer the club through a challenging period.
