New Manchester City manager Enzo Maresca has publicly apologised to Chelsea following the controversy surrounding his decision to leave Stamford Bridge midway through the 2025/26 campaign.
The Italian coach addressed the situation shortly after City confirmed his appointment on a three-year deal, admitting that his departure disrupted Chelsea’s season and expressing regret over how events unfolded.
He said:
“At the end of December 2025, I made the difficult decision to leave Chelsea. The decision was only mine. My resignation from Chelsea opened a path for me to join Manchester City, which is a club I knew very well. I am ecstatic that I have now joined Manchester City. I recognise that my departure from Chelsea in the middle of the season caused disruption for the club and I apologise for that. It was neither my intention nor my wish. I was treated well by everyone at Chelsea and together we achieved great success and memories that I will always treasure. I am grateful to the club, the owners and the fans for giving me the opportunity.”
Maresca stressed that the decision to resign was entirely his own, while thanking Chelsea’s owners, players, staff and supporters for their support during his spell in charge.
He added that the memories and achievements from his time at Stamford Bridge would always remain special to him.
Chelsea, however, offered a different perspective in their official response. The club claimed Maresca’s attention had shifted towards Manchester City months before he eventually stepped down, insisting his resignation played a significant role in the team’s disappointing campaign.
The London club also disclosed that both Maresca and Manchester City agreed to pay compensation as part of a confidential settlement reached following his exit.
Maresca now returns to the Etihad Stadium, where he previously worked as Pep Guardiola’s assistant, with Manchester City handing him a three-year contract as Guardiola’s successor.