Chelsea is in advanced talks with Leicester City’s manager Enzo Maresca to become their new head coach, according to recent British media reports. The 44-year-old Italian, who served as Pep Guardiola’s assistant at Manchester City until last year, has successfully led Leicester back to the Premier League after their relegation.
Maresca’s style of football has reportedly impressed Chelsea’s management. Sky Sports revealed that Chelsea has requested permission from Leicester to speak directly with Maresca, who is now considered the preferred candidate for the job.
Chelsea is searching for a new manager following the departure of Mauricio Pochettino. Despite a late-season surge that saw Chelsea finish sixth in the Premier League and qualify for the Europa Conference League, Pochettino parted ways with the club. His tenure included a narrow loss to Liverpool in the League Cup final and a semi-final exit in the FA Cup against Manchester City.
Other potential candidates for the Chelsea role include Brentford’s Thomas Frank and Ipswich Town’s Kieran McKenna, both of whom have been linked with the vacancy. However, Chelsea appears to be leaning towards Maresca, who has shown a deep understanding of the Chelsea squad and a strong alignment with the club’s vision.
If appointed, Maresca will be tasked with continuing Chelsea’s development and maintaining their competitive edge in European competitions. The club is expected to finalize the decision soon, potentially securing Maresca’s appointment in the coming days.
🔵🇮🇹 Understand Chelsea and Enzo Maresca are set to agree on contract terms.
Two year deal with option for further season or three year deal, this is final detail being clarified.
Maresca already said yes to Chelsea project, up to the clubs now to agree on compensation. pic.twitter.com/YXR5b2xj71
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 27, 2024
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