Chelsea’s Pursuit of Enzo Maresca Comes to Fruition, But Doubts Over His Capabilities Lingers

Enzo Maresca is set to be appointed Chelsea’s new head coach succeeding Mauricio Pochettino at the Stamford Bridge

The Premier League giants Chelsea are set to appoint Enzo Maresca as their new head coach. The Blues were consistently linked with the 44-year-old Italian lately as various reports in the English media pointed out that, the club wants him to succeed Mauricio Pochettino. As things stand, the Stamford Bridge-based side has fulfilled their wish.

As reported by the football transfer market expert – ‘Fabrizio Romano’, Chelsea and Maresca have agreed on the terms for a deal which stands for a duration of 5 years (from 2024 to 2029). However, the deal includes the option of extending Enzo Maresca’s visit at the Bridge by one more year till 2030.

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In addition to Maresca, Chelsea was linked with several other potential candidates as well. Names like Kieran McKenna, and Roberto De Zerbi were also part of the reports directed towards the club’s new managerial appointment. However, the pendulum did swing the way of Leicester City’s boss Enzo Maresca.

There is a sense of excitement among the London club supporters about the new appointment. But, a vivid sense of anxiousness which may also be lingering on the back of their minds regarding Maresca’s lack of Premier League experience and pedigree can’t be denied at this stage. Also, the Italian coach has managed less than 100 senior matches in his career till now. It remains to be seen how things unfold for Chelsea under Enzo Maresca in the times ahead.

Also Read: 3 reasons why Chelsea and Enzo Maresca could emerge as a perfect match

Enzo Maresca’s record as the Leicester City manager

Enzo Maresca took Leicester City to the Premier League promotion by winning the 2023-2024 EFL Championship title. Despite facing competition from Ipswich Town and Leeds United till the last stages of the season, his side stood their ground and managed to finish at the top of the league’s table, securing that automatic promotion spot.

The Italian coach’s talent and vision could be well marked from the way he led the Foxes throughout the campaign. His subtle on-field tweaks, use of substitutions, and strategies against different oppositions proved that he has a certain grasp of the pace and manner in which football is played in England.

During his time at Leicester, the 44-year-old managed the club in a sum of 53 matches. He managed to win 36 games, lost just 13, and drew the remaining four. Maresca averaged 2.11 points per match with a win percentage of about 68. His matches include those played by the Foxes across the Championship, FA Cup, and the EFL Cup (Carabao Cup).

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