Chelsea began 2026 by sacking Enzo Maresca, despite his previous success winning the UEFA Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup. While the club claimed the move was to get their season “back on track,” the decision followed a dismal run of only two wins in nine matches. This slump saw the Blues tumble from title contenders to fifth place.
Tensions peaked after a win against Everton, where Maresca publicly criticized the lack of support he felt within the club. “The last 48 hours have been the hardest since I joined the club because so many people didn’t support me and the team,” he stated. These remarks were reportedly aimed at sporting directors and the medical staff over injury management.
The club’s official statement noted that “Enzo and the club believe a change gives the team the best chance of getting the season back on track.” By using the phrase “parted company,” Chelsea suggests a mutual settlement was reached. Disagreements over Maresca’s desire for more control over squad decisions ultimately made his position at Stamford Bridge untenable.