Enzo Maresca has been appointed as the new head coach of Chelsea, according to reports from British media on Thursday night.
The Daily Telegraph revealed that the Italian coach has inked a five-year contract, with an option for an additional year. This extended agreement is intended to bring stability to the club following a tumultuous period under the management of American investors Behdad Eghbali and Todd Boehly.
Maresca, who previously worked as Pep Guardiola’s assistant at Manchester City, recently led Leicester City back to the Premier League after their relegation in the previous season. His tactical acumen and playing style have reportedly impressed Chelsea’s decision-makers.
Chelsea required a new manager following their decision to part ways with Mauricio Pochettino, who managed the team for only one season. Other potential candidates included Brentford’s Thomas Frank and Kieran McKenna, who guided Ipswich to promotion alongside Leicester.
Pochettino’s departure came despite a late-season resurgence that saw Chelsea finish sixth in the Premier League, thereby securing a spot in the Europa Conference League. However, the team fell short of qualifying for the Champions League and winning any trophies. Chelsea was narrowly defeated 1-0 by Liverpool in the League Cup final after extra time and missed out on the FA Cup final, losing 1-0 to Manchester City in the semi-finals.
Despite these disappointments, Pochettino’s side showed potential with five consecutive wins to close out the season, ensuring Chelsea’s participation in European competitions next year.