Chelsea FC are closing in on appointing Enzo Maresca as their new head coach, succeeding Mauricio Pochettino, according to SkySports.
The current Leicester City manager has emerged as the frontrunner after impressing Chelsea’s top brass with his extensive knowledge of their squad and clear vision for the club’s playing style.
Maresca, 44, has made a mark with his obsession with possession-based and positional play, which seems to align perfectly with Chelsea’s footballing philosophy.
His focused approach and desire for the job have set him apart from other contenders.
Chelsea’s thorough search also considered notable candidates such as Kieran McKenna, Thomas Frank, and Roberto De Zerbi.
However, the club has zeroed in on Maresca, feeling confident that his vision aligns best with their plans.
According to Kaveh Solhekol, Sky Sports News chief reporter, stated,
“Chelsea have had an extensive process with Kieran McKenna, Thomas Frank, and Roberto De Zerbi all considered, but they feel Maresca is the one for them.
The others were all imposing candidates, but Chelsea feels at this moment in time that Maresca is the man for them, and he shares their vision for the future.”
Maresca’s managerial experience, though brief, has been noteworthy. He managed Parma in the Italian second division before taking the reins at Leicester City.
His appointment at Chelsea would mark a significant step in his managerial career.
Chelsea have already approached Leicester City for permission to speak with Maresca, and a compensation agreement is expected soon, with a fee of around £10 million being discussed.
Should negotiations proceed smoothly, an official announcement could be made within the next few days.
Recall Chelsea FC and Pochettino parted ways last week.
Pochettino, in his first and only season as Chelsea’s coach, led Chelsea to the sixth position in the just-ended EPL 2023/2024 season.