Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca could leave the club before Sunday’s Premier League clash against Manchester City, with tensions growing between the Italian coach and the club’s hierarchy.
The Blues have managed just one win in their last seven league matches and currently sit fifth in the table, 15 points behind leaders Arsenal. After the recent 2-2 draw against Bournemouth, Maresca did not face the media, officially due to illness, though discussions within the club suggest he has been reflecting on his future.
There are indications that senior figures are set to meet on New Year’s Day to review the situation.
Results Slip After Promising Start
Chelsea were in a strong position at the end of November, sitting third in the league and progressing well in Europe. However, December brought a sharp downturn, with performances and results both declining.
Following a 2-0 win over Everton, Maresca publicly described it as his “worst 48 hours” at the club, comments that reportedly unsettled key decision-makers despite coming after a positive result.
Behind-the-Scenes Friction
Maresca is understood to be frustrated by what he views as a lack of backing from the club during periods of criticism. He has also been uncomfortable with perceived pressure around team selection and squad rotation, particularly when league results suffer.
Chelsea’s transfer and structural strategy remains unchanged, with responsibility for recruitment and off-field operations held by senior executives. While Maresca accepted this framework on arrival, concerns have grown over how his work with a young squad is being judged internally.
Transfer and Communication Issues
According to BBC Sport, Maresca disagreed with the club’s decision not to sign a central defender following Levi Colwill’s ACL injury in pre-season. He also expressed frustration over restrictions placed on external engagements, including being blocked from publishing a book and speaking at a sports festival in Italy without approval.
His recent change of representation to agent Jorge Mendes has further fuelled speculation about his long-term plans.
Key Fixtures Add Pressure
Chelsea face a demanding January across four competitions, beginning with the trip to Manchester City. Upcoming matches include derbies against Fulham, Crystal Palace, Brentford and West Ham, alongside an FA Cup tie with Charlton, a Carabao Cup semi-final against Arsenal and crucial Champions League fixtures.
BBC Sport data shows that fifth place in the Premier League could still be enough to secure Champions League qualification for the 2026-27 season, keeping Chelsea’s primary objective within reach.
Whether Maresca remains in charge for this decisive stretch now appears uncertain.
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