Chelsea have confirmed that Enzo Maresca is officially the new manager of the club.
The news broke on Monday afternoon that the Italian is set to become the new head coach at Stamford Bridge, taking over from Mauricio Pochettino who parted ways with the Blues at the end of the 23/24 campaign.
The 44-year-old signs on a on a five-year contract, with a club option of a further year, keeping him around Cobham provisionally until 2029.
More on this below, brought to you by The Chelsea Chronicle.
Chelsea confirm Enzo Maresca as new manager
The club confirmed on their official website on Monday the appointment of Enzo Maresca. They wrote: Chelsea Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Enzo Maresca as new head coach of the men’s team.
The Italian will begin his new role on 1 July 2024 on a five-year contract, with a club option of a further year.
Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley, Chelsea’s co-sporting directors, said: ‘We are delighted to welcome Enzo to Chelsea. He has proven himself to be an excellent coach capable of delivering impressive results with an exciting and identifiable style.
‘Enzo has deeply impressed us in our discussions leading up to his appointment. His ambitions and work ethic align with those of the club. We thoroughly look forward to working with him.’
Chelsea’s ownership group said: ‘We are thrilled to welcome Enzo into the Chelsea family. We look forward to supporting him and the rest of the sporting team in fulfilling their potential and our expectations over the years to come.
‘He is a highly gifted coach and leader that we are confident can help fulfill our vision and competitive goals for the Club.’
Maresca said: ‘To join Chelsea, one of the biggest clubs in the world, is a dream for any coach. It is why I am so excited by this opportunity.
‘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.”
Will Enzo Maresca succeed at Chelsea?
The role of Chelsea manager has been one of the toughest positions in the world to keep hold of in recent times, so can Maresca break the cycle?
From a fans’ perspective, it’s a huge risk. The Italian, despite having a remarkable season with Leicester, is still relatively unproven – particularly in a huge league like the Premier League.
He has coached Manchester City at reserve level and was an assistant to the first team working under Pep Guardiola, but the head coach at Chelsea is definitely a different kettle of fish.
One thing’s for certain, after the rash decision to part ways with Pochettino, the new manager needs time. Chelsea have a huge campaign ahead, and it is now the role of Maresca to steer the ship. The Chelsea Chronicle welcomes Maresca to the club.