Overview
- Chelsea announced on Jan. 1 that Maresca had left, thanking him for the 2025 Conference League and Club World Cup titles and saying a change gives the team the best chance to recover.
- Results weighed heavily on the decision, with one win in seven Premier League games leaving Chelsea fifth and 15 points off leaders Arsenal.
- Reporting points to clashes over return‑to‑play and load management, with the club unwilling to let the head coach overrule medical advice for players such as Reece James and Cole Palmer.
- The Press Association reports Maresca told Chelsea he had multiple contacts with Manchester City about a potential role, which contributed to tensions.
- A swift search is underway, with Strasbourg’s Liam Rosenior widely reported as a leading candidate; an interim could be required for Sunday’s trip to Manchester City as contract and staffing details are resolved.