Revealed: Why Chelsea and Enzo Maresca agreed to part ways after crisis talks | OneFootball

Chelsea and Maresca believe change is necessary to salvage season

Confirmation arrived on New Year’s Day that Maresca had left Chelsea after 18 months at the helm, with Strasbourg’s Liam Rosenior the early front-runner to replace him.

During his time in charge, the Italian lead the Blues to a top-four Premier League finish while also delivering two pieces of silverware in the form of the Conference League and Club World Cup.

However, the decision for him to depart Stamford Bridge three days before a massive showdown against Manchester City was largely taken due to the club’s recent dip in form.

Chelsea have won just once in their last seven Premier League matches and were booed off after a 2-2 home draw with Bournemouth on Tuesday night.

That result left Chelsea fifth in the table, and while the side remain on course to reach the Champions League knockout phase and are in the Carabao Cup semi-final, it has been agreed Maresca will not be the man to get their season back on track.

Following crisis talks, Chelsea’s full statement published on their official website read: “Chelsea Football Club and Head Coach Enzo Maresca have parted company.

“During his time at the Club, Enzo led the team to success in the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup. Those achievements will remain an important part of the Club’s recent history, and we thank him for his contributions to the Club.

“With key objectives still to play for across four competitions including qualification for Champions League football, Enzo and the Club believe a change gives the team the best chance of getting the season back on track.

“We wish Enzo well for the future.”

Chelsea are expected to move swiftly to appoint a new head coach.