By Deborah Nnamdi
Chelsea have issued a detailed statement explaining the circumstances surrounding the departure of former head coach Enzo Maresca, revealing that the Italian resigned midway through the 2025/26 season to pursue the opportunity of succeeding Pep Guardiola at Manchester City.
The Premier League club admitted that the 2025/26 campaign was deeply disappointing, blaming much of the disruption on the managerial change that occurred during the Christmas period.
According to Chelsea, the club became aware in the autumn of 2025 that Maresca believed he had a chance of replacing Guardiola at Manchester City at the end of the season.
The club said it soon became evident that the Italian was determined to take the City job despite being under a long-term contract at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea disclosed that Maresca unexpectedly resigned in December 2025, leaving the club with no option but to accept his decision and appoint a replacement during the season.
The Blues admitted they felt let down by the coach’s actions, believing his focus had shifted away from Chelsea while he pursued the Manchester City role.
The club stressed that changing managers midway through a campaign was never part of its plans but said it acted to protect the interests of the players, supporters and the club.
Chelsea also confirmed that confidential compensation agreements were reached with both Manchester City and Maresca following his departure.
According to the statement, the settlements bring an end to months of speculation over the Italian’s exit and clarify the circumstances that led to his departure before the conclusion of the 2025/26 season.
