Chelsea publicly blame Maresca for 'hugely disappointing season' after his Manchester City appointment

Chelsea have publicly blamed Enzo Maresca for their “hugely disappointing season” in a pointed statement released moments after the Italian was confirmed as Manchester City’s new manager, succeeding Pep Guardiola.

The club revealed that as early as autumn 2025 they were informed by Maresca that he was eyeing the City vacancy, and that his desire to take the role had become so consuming that it fatally undermined his commitment to Stamford Bridge. Maresca then resigned abruptly in December 2025, despite being under a long-term contract he had no right to terminate.

“It became clear to us that it was his strong desire to succeed Guardiola and that he was fully committed to pursuing the opportunity,” Chelsea wrote. “In December 2025, our head coach unexpectedly and abruptly resigned from his position. 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 fallout from Maresca’s departure proved severe. His hastily appointed replacement, Liam Rosenior, oversaw five consecutive defeats without a goal scored — the club’s worst such run since 1912 — before he too was sacked. Chelsea ultimately finished 10th in the Premier League, missing European competition entirely.

Chelsea confirmed they have reached a confidential settlement with Manchester City over a compensation package for Maresca, understood to be worth £17 million, and added that Maresca himself will be required to pay compensation for breaking his contract.

Despite the acrimony, the statement closed on a forward-looking note, with Chelsea expressing confidence in incoming manager Xabi Alonso. “In Xabi Alonso, we have a manager who has an exceptional football mind and is a professional of the highest integrity,” the club wrote. “He has all the attributes to deliver the success the club’s supporters deserve and expect.”

Maresca, for his part, offered warm words about his new employers upon his City appointment. “Manchester City is a club I know very well and to have the chance to manage this team is a brilliant opportunity for me,” he said — a contrast to the criticism he had reportedly levelled at Chelsea’s hierarchy before his exit.