Enzo Maresca appointed new Chelsea head coach

Chelsea have announced the appointment of Enzo Maresca as the new head coach of the men’s team. The Italian will begin his role on 1 July 2024, signing a five-year contract with an option for an additional year.

Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley, Chelsea’s co-sporting directors, stated, "We are delighted to welcome Enzo to Chelsea. He has proven himself to be an excellent coach capable of delivering impressive results with an exciting and identifiable style."

They continued, "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."

Chelsea’s ownership group also expressed their enthusiasm: "We are thrilled to welcome Enzo into the Chelsea family. We look forward to supporting him and the rest of the sporting team in fulfilling their potential and our expectations over the years to come."

Maresca, reflecting on his appointment, said, "To join Chelsea, one of the biggest clubs in the world, is a dream for any coach. It is why I am so excited by this opportunity. I look forward to working with a very talented group of players and staff to develop a team that continues the club’s tradition of success and makes our fans proud."

Enzo Maresca brings a wealth of experience to Chelsea. He started his coaching career with Ascoli, Sevilla, and West Ham United before taking charge of Manchester City's Elite Development Squad in August 2020, leading them to the 2021 Premier League 2 title. He then had a stint with Parma and served as an assistant coach at Manchester City.

In June 2023, Maresca was appointed head coach at Leicester City, where he guided the club to the EFL Championship title and promotion back to the Premier League in his first season.

Maresca’s coaching staff at Chelsea will include former Chelsea goalkeeper Willy Caballero, Danny Walker, Michele De Bernardin, Marcos Alvarez, Javi Molina, and Roberto Vitiello. Ben Roberts will join as goalkeeper coach and has been appointed head of global goalkeeping. Additionally, Bernardo Cueva will lead the set-piece department.

Maresca playing career included notable stints at West Bromwich Albion, Juventus, Sevilla, and Olympiacos. He retired in 2017 and transitioned into coaching.