Several managers have reportedly emerged as possible candidates to replace Enzo Maresca at Chelsea if the club’s owners decide to part ways with the Italian.
Hopes that Maresca would lead the Blues to their first Premier League title in a decade have dimmed following recent developments, particularly his comments after the weekend’s league action.
Chelsea defeated Everton 2-0 on Saturday, but the victory was overshadowed by a strong post-match outburst from Maresca during his press conference. The former Leicester City boss said the 48 hours leading up to the game were the worst he had experienced since joining the club, claiming that many people failed to support him and the team.
Although Maresca insisted his remarks were not aimed at supporters, he did not specify who he believed was being unsupportive. Several British media outlets interpreted the comments as criticism of Chelsea’s board and ownership.
Ahead of Tuesday night’s Carabao Cup quarter-final clash with Cardiff City, Maresca maintained that he remains “absolutely committed” to his role at Stamford Bridge. However, Chelsea’s history suggests that managers rarely enjoy long tenures, especially amid tension with the club’s hierarchy.
According to Metro, a number of names are already being considered should Chelsea move on from Maresca. Strasbourg head coach Liam Rosenior is reportedly the leading candidate. The Ligue 1 side is owned by Todd Boehly’s BlueCo consortium and currently has several Chelsea players on loan.
Rosenior, 41, has prior Premier League experience from his time at Hull City. Also mentioned is Oliver Glasner, who guided Crystal Palace to an FA Cup triumph over Manchester City and a fifth-place Premier League finish last season.
Former Chelsea midfielder Frank Lampard, who has previously managed the club twice and is now rebuilding his reputation at Coventry City, is also on the list. Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola is another name linked with the role.
