Enzo Maresca confirmed as new Chelsea head coach
The former Leicester manager has signed a 5-year contract.
Last updated 3rd Jun 2024
Chelsea have announced the appointment of Enzo Maresca as their new men's team head coach.
The 44-year-old, who guided Leicester City back to the Premier League in his only season at the club, takes over from Mauricio Pochettino at Stamford Bridge.
He has signed a five year contract with an option of a further year, and will officially start work on the 1st July.
"I am so excited by this opportunity"
Speaking on the club's website, Maresca described Chelsea as "one of the biggest clubs in the world" and added that he is "excited" by the opportunity.
"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.”
Analysis: A bold appointment by the Blues.
There were perhaps a few raised eyebrows when it was first reported that Mauricio Pochettino had left Chelsea by mutual consent on the 21st May.
Despite some disappointing results, the former Tottenham manager had appeared to have turned things around, with the west London side going on an impressive run of form towards the end of the season.
However, reports began to emerge of tensions behind the scenes between Pochettino and the club's hierarchy.
Maresca was able to develop a possession-based style of football at Leicester City and is reportedly seen as a coach who can work within a more confined management structure.
Despite a dip in form last season, Maresca guided The Foxes to the Championship title with 97 points.
He also worked under Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola in different roles, first as their Elite Development Squad manager before returning to the club in 2022 as an assistant.
Chelsea's ownership will be aware of the success that another former mentee of Pep Guardiola has had in the form of Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta, and Maresca's time under the 6-time Premier League-winning coach will almost certainly be another factor in his appointment.
The 44-year-old is the sixth coach to take charge at Stamford Bridge since Todd Boehly took over, and Chelsea fans will be wanting the Italian to deliver results quickly.