Parting ways with Maresca, Chelsea appoints Zidane, Jurgen Klopp?

Chelsea is believed to have established clear standards for choosing the next head coach following Enzo Maresca.

According to The Telegraph, Chelsea has no plans to pursue high-profile managers in the search for Maresca’s replacement. This means candidates like Jurgen Klopp or Zinedine Zidane are almost ruled out, as the club prefers options more aligned with their long-term vision.

Currently, Zidane is said to be waiting for an opportunity to take the hot seat at the French national team, succeeding Didier Deschamps after the 2026 World Cup. Since ending his second tenure at Real Madrid in 2021, Zidane has not taken on any coaching roles. The French tactician was once linked to Chelsea in 2023 as a potential replacement for Graham Potter, but the deal never materialized.

As for Jurgen Klopp, it is highly unlikely he would coach Chelsea even if offered. After leaving Liverpool in the 2023/24 season, the German coach has not returned to management and instead chose a different path as Global Football Director at the Red Bull group. Additionally, Klopp has stated "he will not manage any other Premier League club besides Liverpool", indicating that the chance of him succeeding Enzo Maresca is virtually impossible.

Regarding Chelsea, The Telegraph also suggests The Blues will not appoint an interim coach for the remainder of the 2025/26 season but will promptly find and hire a permanent head coach from a list of potential candidates.

Among them, Strasbourg’s head coach Liam Rosenior is considered one of the most promising names after an impressive spell in Ligue 1. Additionally, Oliver Glasner, Andoni Iraola, and former Chelsea midfielder Cesc Fabregas are also highly regarded by experts.

However, to prepare for the crucial match against Man City early next week, the London club’s management decided to appoint Calum McFarlane, Chelsea’s U21 coach, to take charge.

The English strategist joined Chelsea last summer after a period at Southampton overseeing youth development. Although he lacks Premier League managerial experience, McFarlane has received positive reviews for his ability to elevate players and his modern tactical approach suited for top-level football.