Chelsea are in advanced talks with Leicester City manager Enzo Maresca to fill the vacant head coach position following Mauricio Pochettino’s departure. The 44-year-old Italian impressed Chelsea’s hierarchy with his immediate success at Leicester, guiding them back to the Premier League after their relegation just a year prior.
Maresca’s background as Pep Guardiola’s assistant at Manchester City is another factor piquing Chelsea’s interest. His coaching philosophy, likely influenced by Guardiola’s possession-based and attacking style, aligns with what the Blues are looking for. Sky Sports reported that Chelsea requested and received permission from Leicester to speak directly with Maresca, solidifying his position as the preferred candidate.
Pochettino’s stint at Stamford Bridge lasted only one season, ending with a bittersweet taste. While a late surge secured Europa Conference League qualification, the Argentine manager fell short of Champions League football and silverware. Chelsea lost both the League Cup final (1-0 to Liverpool) and the FA Cup semi-final (1-0 to Manchester City) under his watch. However, Pochettino did manage a five-win streak to close the season, hinting at a potentially successful future had he stayed.
While Maresca is the frontrunner, Chelsea hasn’t completely shut the door on other options. Former Brighton manager Roberto de Zerbi and Brentford’s Thomas Frank remain possibilities, although both would require compensation fees.
A potential stumbling block in the Maresca negotiations is Leicester’s reported £8m-£10m compensation demand. Chelsea’s willingness to meet this fee will likely determine the deal’s outcome.
Both clubs aim to finalize the appointment this week, with the compensation package acting as the key sticking point.
Pochettino’s departure from Chelsea was amicable, with a sixth-place Premier League finish in his only season. Former Manchester United assistant Kieran McKenna, initially linked with the Chelsea vacancy, is now rumoured to be a target for Brighton and potentially a return to Old Trafford if Manchester United decide to part ways with Erik ten Hag. Ipswich Town, McKenna’s current club, wants to keep hold of him and is expected to offer a new contract despite his apparent reluctance to stay.
