'Terrific job': Mikel Arteta delivers verdict on Enzo Maresca after shock Chelsea exit

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Evening Standard

·2 janvier 2026

'Terrific job': Mikel Arteta delivers verdict on Enzo Maresca after shock Chelsea exit

Arsenal’s Carabao Cup semi-final has been impacted by a massive managerial change

Mikel Arteta has hailed the job Enzo Maresca did at Chelsea after the Italian left his position at Stamford Bridge.

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Maresca had a contract that ran through until 2029 but it was announced on New Year's Day that he had parted ways with the Blues, only six months after leading them to silverware at the Club World Cup.

That came as a result of disagreements with the club's hierarchy behind the scenes, with Maresca making his frustrations clear in recent weeks.

Chelsea won only one of their last seven Premier League matches under Maresca, but they did earn an impressive point against Arsenal at the end of November despite playing more than a half with ten men.

"Well I wish him all the best," Arteta said.

"I really like Enzo as a person, as a professional. I think he's done a terrific job at Chelsea.

"That's a decision that has been made, and I wish him all the best."

Mikel Arteta and Enzo Maresca did battle three times over the past 18 months

Arsenal FC via Getty Images

Arsenal have enjoyed a strong run of results against Chelsea in recent seasons, not losing to their London rivals since August 2021.

According to reports, Maresca was envious of the level of control Arteta has at Arsenal and wanted a similar say at Chelsea.

The Italian was frustrated at the lack of influence he had in transfer decisions and also grew unhappy with the level of interference when it came to decisions on player workload and injury issues.

Arsenal travel to face Chelsea in the first leg of their Carabao Cup semi-final tie on January 14, with the return leg in north London on February 3.

The Gunners also host the Blues in the Premier League on March 1.