Man City Appoint Enzo Maresca—and Chelsea Lose Cool With Angry Statement

Manchester City have confirmed the appointment of Enzo Maresca, whose controversial departure from Chelsea in January drew a frustrated response from the Blues.

City and Chelsea have spent weeks locked in negotiations over compensation for Maresca, who resigned as Blues manager on New Year’s Day following talks with his new employers over potentially replacing Pep Guardiola.

“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,” a Chelsea statement read.

“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.

“In December 2025, our Head Coach unexpectedly and abruptly resigned from his position. Obviously, we felt let down as we believed that his head and heart were focused on another club and another opportunity, despite having just arrived at Chelsea the year before.

“No club wants to change its head coach midway through a season. 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.

“In the circumstances and given the mutual respect between clubs, a confidential settlement has been reached with Manchester City, which includes the payment of compensation. A confidential settlement has also been reached with the former Head Coach under which he will pay compensation.

“Looking forward to next season, in Xabi Alonso, we have a Manager who has an exceptional football mind and is a professional of the highest integrity. He has all the attributes to deliver the success the Club’s supporters deserve and expect.”

“Once terms were agreed with Enzo Maresca, Manchester City and Chelsea FC reached a mutually agreed settlement under which Chelsea FC will receive compensation.”

Maresca has signed a three-year contract at City and will begin his tenure in the Community Shield against Arsenal on August 16, with an awkward reunion with Chelsea lined up for December.