Gary Cahill gives his honest thoughts on Chelsea replacing Mauricio Pochettino with Enzo Maresca

Chelsea legend Gary Cahill has now given his take on the recent goings on as far as the managerial situation goes at the club.

Just a few days after the season came to an end, Mauricio Pochettino was relieved of his duties despite helping the Blues qualify for some form of European football next season.

This was a clear improvement on the campaign before, however that combined with any off the field antics saw him removed from his post.

Photo by Copa/Getty Images

He has been replaced by Enzo Maresca, who at this time has never managed a game in the Premier League.

The Italian impressed at the helm at Leicester City last season, although essentially achieved what was expected in gaining them promotion back to the top flight.

Cahill says Enzo Maresca needs time

The decision certainly raised some eyebrows, and Cahill is certainly one of those who was a supporter of Pochettino as a manager.

He said to Sky Sports: “Time will tell obviously. Like we said lots of times this season and last season – there’s a huge amount of change at the football club at the moment and it takes time.

“It was a very difficult job for Poch to come into, I really like him, I think he’s a good manager and a great person, but time will tell, and this team and the club at the moment, obviously need a little bit of time to get to the top.”

Cole Palmer key for Maresca

Despite the affection the players had for Pochettino, it has already been reported that the few players who have previously worked under Maresca have spoken highly of him as a manager.

One of those is Cole Palmer, who will no doubt be absolutely crucial again for the Blues next season following his sensational debut campaign.

The 22-year-old will personally be focusing purely on his international duties right now, with him pushing for a starting role at the upcoming European Championships as part of the England side.