Enzo Maresca is on the brink of leaving Chelsea after a complete breakdown in his relationship with the club. The situation around the head coach has been unpredictable for weeks and it is highly likely that a parting of the ways is expected to take place on Thursday.
Chelsea are set to open the new year by holding emergency talks over Maresca’s position. It is expected that the Italian, who was booed by supporters during the disappointing 2-2 draw with Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday, will not be in charge for Sunday’s trip to Manchester City. Sources have indicated that Maresca wants to leave the club but it is unclear if he is willing to walk away without a payoff. His contract runs until 2029, with an option for an extra year.
Chelsea, who have one win from their past seven league games, have had their patience tested by Maresca’s decisions during games but, more important, by his conduct away from the pitch. Uncertainty set in when the former Leicester manager, whose side have dropped 15 points from winning positions in the league this season, made cryptic comments about experiencing his “worst 48 hours” at the club after the victory over Everton on 13 December.