Maresca emerges as leading candidate for Chelsea

LEICESTER, ENGLAND - MAY 04: Leicester City manager Enzo Maresca celebrates promotion during the Sky Bet Championship match between Leicester City and Blackburn Rovers at The King Power Stadium on May 04, 2024 in Leicester, England. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images) (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

Chelsea have reportedly identified Leicester City’s Enzo Maresca as their top candidate to replace Mauricio Pochettino.

The Blues surprised their fans on Tuesday after deciding to part ways with the Argentinian coach ahead of next season, despite their improving form in recent months. The news came as a bitter blow for supporters, who’re frustrated with the lack of stability at the West London side.

Chelsea are now on the hunt for a replacement for Pochettino and have identified a number of possible options including Maresca, Roberto De Zerbi, Ruben Amorim, Hansi Flick and Kieran McKenna.

Maresca on track for Chelsea job

As reported by Gianluca Di Marzio, Maresca is now considered the leading candidate to replace Pochettino at Chelsea, having a €10m release clause in his contract with Leicester City. He is appreciated for his style of play and achievements with the Foxes this term.

During his season in the Championship, the Italian coach has averaged 2.11 points per match across 46 league matches.