Enzo Maresca leaves Leicester to join Chelsea on 5-year deal
He helped lead the Foxes back to the Premier League
Leicester City are searching for a new manager following confirmation of the departure of Enzo Maresca.
The Italian has joined Chelsea as their new Head Coach after signing a five-year deal, with an option for a further year.
Maresca recently guided the Foxes back to the Premier League after winning the Championship.
In a statement issued by the club, Leicester have confirmed they are 'disappointed' by his decision but have wished him well in his 'future endeavours'.
It reads: "Leicester City Football Club can today confirm the departure of Enzo Maresca from his position as First Team Manager.
"Given the promising foundations established during his single season in charge, the Club is disappointed that Enzo has decided at this stage that he no longer wants to be part of our vision.
"However, with Enzo’s decision made and the Board’s terms for his departure met, we wish him well in his future endeavours. He leaves with the appreciation of everyone at the Club for his work in helping us to achieve an immediate return to the Premier League during the 2023/24 season.
"Staff members Willy Caballero, Danny Walker, Michele De Bernardin, Marcos Alvarez, Javier Molina Caballero and Roberto Vitiello will also be leaving the Club.
"The Board will now commence the process of appointing a new manager that will lead our return to the Premier League and continue the implementation of our long-term vision for the success of Leicester City Football Club."
Maresca will formally start work on July 1, having emerged as the outstanding candidate from among a field that included Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna, Brentford's Thomas Frank and outgoing Brighton boss Roberto De Zerbi.
In a statement he 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."