Chelsea 'Disappointed' by Maresca, Citing His Focus on Man City

Chelsea Football Club has issued a strongly worded statement criticizing former manager Enzo Maresca for his conduct surrounding his departure to Manchester City. The club expressed feeling "let down" by the Italian's actions, accusing him of prioritizing a move to his new club even while under contract with Chelsea.

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We feel let down by the Italian's...

The statement, released shortly after Manchester City officially announced Maresca's appointment, detailed Chelsea's perspective on the end of their working relationship. According to the London club, Maresca had indicated as early as the autumn of 2025 his desire to potentially succeed Pep Guardiola at City. Chelsea stated it became clear that this was his "great ambition" and that he was fully committed to pursuing this opportunity, despite having a long-term contract with Chelsea.

Chelsea described Maresca's resignation in December 2025 as "unexpected and sudden." The club felt betrayed, believing his "mind and heart were already with another club and another professional opportunity," despite having joined Chelsea only the previous year. The club acknowledged that no team wishes to change managers mid-season.

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Last autumn, our former coach informed the club that the opportunity might arise to succeed Pep Guardiola at the end of the season. It became clear to us that this was his great ambition and that he was fully committed to pursuing this prospect, despite having a long-term contract with the Londoners, which he had no right to unilaterally terminate.

However, given Maresca's decision not to fulfill his duties until the end of the season, Chelsea stated they had no choice but to accept his resignation to protect the players, fans, and the club's emblem. A confidential agreement was reached with Manchester City, which included a compensation payment to Chelsea. Maresca himself has reportedly issued a public apology following his resignation from Chelsea.

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In December 2025, our coach unexpectedly and suddenly submitted his resignation. Obviously, we felt betrayed, as we believed his mind and heart were already with another club and another professional opportunity, even though he had come to Chelsea just the previous year.