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Enzo Maresca breaks silence on acrimonious Chelsea exit after seeing Liam Rosenior drafted in as his replacement
Enzo Maresca has finally spoken out following his sudden exit from Chelsea, offering a measured and dignified farewell just hours after his replacement, Liam Rosenior, was officially announced.
Despite leading the club to Club World Cup glory, the Italian coach was unceremoniously shown the door. Yet, Maresca insists he departs with “inner peace,” proud of having restored the Blues to their deserved standing amid turbulent times.
The 45-year-old took to social media on Tuesday to address supporters, choosing composure over airing grievances after reports of strained relations with the club’s hierarchy. His statement came shortly after Clearlake Capital-backed Chelsea confirmed Rosenior—formerly of Hull City and Strasbourg—as the new head coach, a move that has divided opinion among the fanbase.
Quoting Robert Baden-Powell, founder of the Scout movement, Maresca set the tone for his farewell:
“LEAVE THIS WORLD A LITTLE BETTER THAN YOU FOUND IT.”
He reflected on the journey he embarked on in the summer of 2024, beginning with the preliminary rounds of the Conference League, and emphasised the pride he takes in what he achieved:
“My journey with Chelsea began with the preliminary rounds of the Conference League. I leave with the inner peace of leaving a prestigious club like Chelsea where it deserves to be.”
Enzo Maresca’s departure has shocked football observers across Europe, not least because of the tangible silverware he brought to Stamford Bridge during a turbulent tenure.
While friction over transfer policy and a dip in domestic results reportedly contributed to his dismissal, his record remains impressive: Champions League qualification, a Conference League title, and the pinnacle of the Club World Cup.
He paid tribute to the fans who supported him throughout his 18-month spell:
“I want to thank all the Chelsea fans for their support over the last 18 months. Support that was crucial to achieving Champions League qualification, winning the Conference League, and winning the Club World Cup. Victories that I will always hold in my heart!”
The Club World Cup victory, in particular, stands out as a highlight of Maresca’s reign. Under his guidance, Chelsea navigated a demanding tournament in the United States to be crowned world champions—a triumph that promised stability and progress.
Yet, barely six months later, he finds himself clearing out his office at Cobham, a casualty of the club’s relentless pursuit of perfection and control.
In his farewell, Maresca chose to focus on legacy and achievement, leaving behind a blueprint of success while stepping away with dignity.
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