Chelsea Part Ways with Maresca at the Start of New Year 2026 | Football news at 1000Goals.com: Football Betting, Highlights, and More

Chelsea started their new year with shocking news after announcing the parting of Enzo Maresca as their manager. The Blues will be starting their 2026 season searching for a new manager who can at least help them go through this current season.

The Blues End Adventure with Maresca in 2026

Just like a bolt out of the blue, Chelsea fans received rather shocking news, which culminated right at the start of 2026, which is the departure of Enzo Maresca. The Blues have officially confirmed Maresca’s departure on their social media account.

“Chelsea Football Club and Head Coach Enzo Maresca have parted company,” the club statement read

On that official statement, the Blues seemingly suggest that recent poor results in the league play a part in the decision to part company with the Italian tactician. In their last seven league games, Chelsea only managed to pick up one win, which was a 2-0 victory against Everton.

“With key objectives still to play for across four competitions, including qualification for Champions League football, Enzo and the Club believe a change gives the team the best chance of getting the season back on track. We wish Enzo well for the future.” Chelsea wrote.

Aside from the recent disappointing results, the media also suggests that one of the reasons for Maresca’s departure is his disagreement with the management and links with other clubs. The former midfielder reportedly didn’t like the club’s policy regarding players’ health situations. As for links with other teams, the tactician is said to be keen on managing Manchester City should Pep Guardiola leave anytime soon.

Chelsea to Look for a Permanent New Manager

Having to change managers halfway through the season doesn’t seem to force the Blues into eyeing for a temporary solution. According to multiple reports, including from transfer guru Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea’s plan is to appoint a permanent replacement sometime soon.

The London-based outfit is still considering several potential candidates, including Strasbourg’s tactician, Liam Rosenior. Since the Ligue 1 club is also owned by the same company that owns Chelsea, the BlueCo, snatching Rosenior won’t be a difficult thing.

However, there’s still no final decision yet from the Blues’ ownership as they want to make sure that they make the right decision. Chelsea are currently sitting fifth in the standings, two points behind fourth-place Liverpool, but Arne Slot’s side played one game less.