How Enzo Maresca dumped Chelsea for Manchester City – Blues release statement
Chelsea have hit out on former head coach Enzo Maresca in a strongly worded statement after confirming his departure to Manchester City, accusing the Italian of losing focus on the club before deciding to resign midway through last season.
Manchester City announced Maresca as their new manager on a three-year contract after agreeing a reported £17 million compensation package with Chelsea.
The 46-year-old replaces Pep Guardiola at the Etihad Stadium following months of speculation over the succession.
Chelsea explain manager’s departure
In a detailed statement, Chelsea said Maresca informed the club during the autumn that he was interested in succeeding Guardiola and suggested his attention had shifted away from Stamford Bridge.
“It became clear to us that it was his strong desire to succeed Guardiola and that he was fully committed to pursuing the opportunity, despite the fact he was under a long-term contract which he had no right to terminate,” the club said.
Chelsea added that Maresca’s resignation on January 1, 2026, left them with little option but to accept his decision.
“Obviously, we felt let down as we believed that his head and heart were focused on another club and another opportunity, despite having just arrived at Chelsea the year before.”
The club confirmed that confidential compensation agreements had been reached with both Manchester City and the departing coach.
Chelsea also expressed confidence in new manager Xabi Alonso, saying: “He has all the attributes to deliver the success the club’s supporters deserve and expect.”
Maresca apologises to supporters
Maresca later acknowledged responsibility for the disruption caused by his departure in a message posted on social media.
“At the end of December 2025, I made the difficult decision to leave Chelsea. The decision was only mine.”
He added: “I recognise that my departure from Chelsea in the middle of the season caused disruption for the club and I apologise for that. It was neither my intention nor my wish.”
The Italian also thanked Chelsea’s owners, players and supporters for their backing during his time in charge.
Maresca leaves after overseeing 92 matches, winning 55 of them while guiding Chelsea to FIFA Club World Cup and UEFA Conference League titles before making the switch to Manchester City.