Overview
- Chelsea confirmed on Jan. 1 that it has parted company with head coach Enzo Maresca, saying a change offers the best chance to get the season back on track.
- The decision followed a leadership crisis meeting earlier in the day, according to The Athletic and other outlets.
- No successor was announced, with British media linking Roberto De Zerbi, Andoni Iraola and Liam Rosenior as candidates under consideration.
- Results had dipped to one win in seven Premier League games, leaving Chelsea fifth and 15 points behind leaders Arsenal, as fan frustration grew after the 2-2 draw at Bournemouth.
- British reports also described a rift over appreciation and transfer input, even as Maresca’s tenure delivered the Conference League and Club World Cup and a return to the Champions League; Chelsea visit Manchester City on Sunday.