Chelsea publicly laid bare the circumstances surrounding Enzo Maresca's controversial departure on Monday, accusing their former head coach of losing focus after learning he could replace Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, while the Italian apologized for the disruption caused as City officially unveiled him as their new manager.
The Premier League champions confirmed Maresca's appointment on a three-year contract after lengthy negotiations with Chelsea over a compensation package, ending months of speculation about Guardiola's successor and closing one of English football's most contentious managerial sagas.
In an unusually candid statement, Chelsea said the events leading to Maresca's resignation on Jan. 1 severely disrupted the club's campaign and played a significant role in what it described as a "hugely disappointing" 2025-26 season.
According to the club, Maresca informed Chelsea during the autumn that an opportunity could arise to succeed Guardiola once the Spaniard stepped down at the end of the season.
Chelsea said it soon became evident that Maresca was determined to pursue the role despite being tied to a long-term contract.
