Maresca era begins at the Etihad
Manchester City have finally confirmed the appointment of Enzo Maresca as their new manager, with the Italian signing a three-year contract to replace Pep Guardiola.
The announcement, made on Monday afternoon, brings an end to months of uncertainty surrounding the club's next permanent boss. But the real drama came from west London, where Chelsea responded with a 322-word statement detailing their version of events surrounding Maresca's departure from Stamford Bridge.
“In Autumn last year, the Club was informed by our former Head Coach that there might be an opportunity for him to succeed Pep Guardiola at the end of the season. 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 statement goes on to reveal that Maresca “unexpectedly and abruptly resigned” in December 2025, leaving Chelsea feeling “let down” by a manager who had only arrived the year before.
“No club wants to change its head coach midway through a season,” the statement reads. “However, in light of his decision not to continue fulfilling his responsibilities through to the end of the season, the Club was left with no choice but to protect our players, our supporters, and the Badge and accept his resignation.”
According to Chelsea, a confidential settlement has now been reached between the two clubs that includes the payment of compensation. A separate confidential settlement has also been agreed between Chelsea and Maresca, under which he will pay compensation.
Chelsea concluded their statement by looking ahead to life under Xabi Alonso, describing him as a manager “who has an exceptional football mind and is a professional of the highest integrity.”
For City, the long wait for Maresca's official unveiling is finally over. The real work starts now.