Euro champion speaks out as Chelsea dismiss Enzo Maresca

Enzo Maresca’s official departure from Chelsea on New Year’s Day has sparked significant attention across European football circles.

Although he parted ways with Stamford Bridge following a series of disappointing results, the Italian coach still earned respect and gratitude from many former players, notably defender Marc Cucurella.

Marc Cucurella was the player Maresca trusted the most at Chelsea. The Spanish defender appeared 78 times in all competitions under the Italian manager, more than any other player. Right after Maresca’s exit, Cucurella expressed deep thanks, highlighting the trust his coach showed him from the very beginning and the memorable moments in the blue jersey.

Maresca left Chelsea amid the team’s decline in the Premier League, having won only one of their last seven matches. His final game as head coach of The Blues was a 2-2 draw against Bournemouth, a result that clearly reflected the turmoil the London club faced towards the end of the 45-year-old manager’s tenure.

Nonetheless, Maresca’s impact during his time at Chelsea cannot be denied. Before his departure, he helped the club secure a double trophy haul including the FIFA Club World Cup and the Conference League, while also leading Chelsea back into the Champions League after a turbulent season. This achievement is notable given Chelsea’s ongoing squad rebuilding process.

Previously, signs of friction had appeared between Maresca and Chelsea’s management. The peak of this was when he admitted that the preparation period for the mid-December victory over Everton was the worst since he joined the club. Although he once confirmed he would continue managing Chelsea next season, the two sides ultimately failed to reach an agreement.

According to multiple sources, Chelsea is considering appointing Liam Rosenior, the current manager of Strasbourg, as Maresca’s successor. Meanwhile, Maresca’s departure closes a short but emotional chapter, leaving many players and fans of The Blues with a sense of regret.