Enzo Maresca: Did Chelsea directors shade Pochettino while welcoming the new head coach?

Enzo Maresca has replaced Mauricio Pochettino as Chelsea head coach (Imago)

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Enzo Maresca: Did Chelsea directors shade Pochettino while welcoming the new head coach?

Enzo Maresca: Did Chelsea directors shade Pochettino while welcoming the new head coach?

Seye Omidiora 21:41 - 03.06.2024

The Blues announced Maresca as Mauricio Pochettino’s replacement on Monday.

Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea move was made official on Monday a fortnight after the departure of Mauricio Pochettino

Maresca joins Chelsea

The Championship-winning manager with Leicester City replaced the Argentine, who departed West London after one season at Stamford Bridge, despite guiding the club to a sixth-place finish. 

However, supporters complained about the former Tottenham Hotspur head coach’s approach in the 2023-24 season, pointing to the absence of a recognisable style. 

Chelsea
Mauricio Pochettino was given stick by Chelsea supporters during the 2023-24 season (90mins)

Did Chelsea directors shade Pochettino?

In welcoming Maresca, Chelsea’s co-sporting directors, Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley’s joint statement could be interpreted as a dig at the departed boss. 

Enzo Maresca Chelsea
Enzo Maresca has been appointed Chelsea head coach (Imago/NurPhoto)

“We are delighted to welcome Enzo to Chelsea,” read the pair’s remarks. “He has proven himself to be an excellent coach capable of delivering impressive results with an exciting and identifiable style.  

“Enzo has deeply impressed us in our discussions leading up to his appointment. His ambitions and work ethic align with those of the club. We thoroughly look forward to working with him.”

What comes next for Maresca and Chelsea?

Following the Italian’s appointment, the club can look ahead to the start of preseason next month, keen to record a better season than last year and make a concerted push for Champions League qualification.