Chelsea are close to appointing Enzo Maresca as a replacement for Mauricio Pochettino.
Todd Boehly has surprisingly decided to hire the Italian – who has never managed a single Premier League game – after the Argentine departed Stamford Bridge by mutual consent, despite recording five consecutive wins to end the 2023/24 campaign.
So, what do the Chelsea players think of Enzo Maresca replacing Mauricio Pochettino? Let’s take a look…
What Chelsea players think of Enzo Maresca
An update by Ben Jacobs has now provided some insight regarding what those at Stamford Bridge think of the 44-year-old.
The respected journalist claims that several players were disappointed to see Pochettino depart after a strong end to last season, although there is optimism about what Maresca could deliver in west London.
Jacobs told Caught Offside: “Maresca is on the brink of becoming Chelsea’s new head coach. He is expected to sign a minimum five-year guaranteed contract. Compensation is being finalised with Leicester in the region of £8m – £10m.
“Although it is true several players were disappointed to see Pochettino leave, there is already excitement at what Maresca can bring. Chelsea’s players believe momentum is on their side and Maresca’s favoured 4-3-3 should favour the squad he inherits.”
The man from Pontecagnano Faiano has just guided Leicester back to the Premier League after winning the Championship, overseeing 31 wins from 46 outings – the Foxes also boasted the best defensive record with just 41 goals conceded.
However, Maresca did endure a wobble around February and March as Leicester lost three consecutive Championship games, and even threw away a 17-point lead to slip behind Leeds in second before clawing the season back.
Bold call from Todd Boehly
This is – quite simply – a massive gamble by Boehly.
As aforesaid, Maresca has never managed in the Premier League, and his only other role as the main man came when he coached Parma in 2021 – where he eventually received the sack.
Of course, sometimes a gamble does have to be taken – Arsenal took a risk when hiring the inexperienced Mikel Arteta.
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Chelsea are actually believed to have taken inspiration from the Gunners in deciding to hire Maresca.
The Italian does at least have some experience of working with superstars, after acting as No.2 to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, but only time will tell if he can make a success out of Chelsea.