Africa
CHELSEA have appointed Enzo Maresca as their new manager on a five-year contract with an option for an additional year.
The Italian replaces Mauricio Pochettino, who left Stamford Bridge by mutual consent on May 21 after just one season.
Maresca, 44, previously managed Leicester City, leading them to the Championship title last season after taking charge in June 2023.
He expressed his excitement about the new role, stating, “To join Chelsea, one of the biggest clubs in the world, is a dream for any coach. I look forward to working with a very talented group of players and staff to develop a team that continues the club’s tradition of success and makes our fans proud.”
Starting his new role on July 1, Maresca becomes Chelsea’s sixth managerial appointment in five years and the fourth since American investor Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital acquired the club in May 2022.
Chelsea’s 2023-24 season saw a mixed performance, but they ended on a high note by winning their final five games, securing a sixth-place finish and qualification for the Europa Conference League.
They also finished as runners-up in the Carabao Cup and reached the semi-finals of the FA Cup.
After Pochettino’s departure, several candidates were considered for the managerial position, including former Brighton manager Roberto de Zerbi, Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna, and Brentford’s Thomas Frank.
However, Chelsea’s co-sporting directors, Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart, noted that Maresca “deeply impressed us in our discussions leading up to his appointment” and that his “ambitions and work ethic align with those of the club.”
Chelsea players not involved in international duty will return for pre-season training under Maresca on July 4, ahead of a tour of the United States.
Maresca’s coaching staff from Leicester, including former Chelsea goalkeeper Willy Caballero, will join him at Stamford Bridge.
Maresca was described as the “first and unanimous choice” for the position by the club’s leadership. (Credit BBC Sports)
F.A
June 3, 2024
Tags: Enzo Maresca New Chelsea Manager
