Overview
- Chelsea confirmed in an official statement that Maresca left by mutual agreement, with his contract—originally to 2029—rescinded.
- Maresca departs credited with the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup, achievements the club called an important part of its recent history.
- The team sits fifth in the Premier League, 15 points behind Arsenal, after a difficult December that included a 2-2 draw with Bournemouth.
- Multiple outlets report growing tensions with the hierarchy, citing friction over communications involving Manchester City, disagreements on medical decisions, and a missed post-match press conference.
- The club has not named a replacement; reports link Liam Rosenior, Olivier Glasner, Roberto De Zerbi and Andoni Iraola as potential candidates, with a trip to Manchester City on Sunday and a crowded January calendar ahead.