Chelsea Chiefs Finally Reveal Why They Replaced Mauricio Pochettino With Enzo Maresca

Chelsea’s decision to replace Mauricio Pochettino with Enzo Maresca in the summer was driven by the Italian’s personality and alignment with the club’s long-term vision, according to club chiefs Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart.

Despite leading Chelsea to a strong finish last season and securing European qualification, Pochettino was sacked after just one year at Stamford Bridge. Chelsea quickly moved to appoint Maresca, paying £10 million to lure him from Leicester City.

Speaking to The Telegraph, Winstanley revealed that Maresca’s approach and belief in his playing style made him the ideal candidate. “Enzo was somebody we admired and were keen to bring here,” Winstanley said. “We were really excited by the way he works, aligned with the club and the playing squad, how it’s set up to move forwards. And we absolutely see him here for the long term, that’s definitely how we see it.”

Winstanley emphasized that Maresca’s personality is crucial in managing the club and instilling confidence in the team’s playing style. “He’s got the personality to manage this club and coach this team, and he’s got a strong belief in the playing style, as we have. And that’s translating to the pitch, it’s translating to the players. The players have got a belief in that. So, none of us are surprised that he’s grasped it quite quickly, but it’s early days and we’ve got to keep that momentum going.”

Laurence Stewart echoed Winstanley’s sentiments, confirming that the club sees Maresca as a long-term solution. “As Paul said, we do see it for the long term. He has a five-year contract, that’s what Enzo signed and now he needs a period of time to work with the group and continue to confirm his ideas about his way of playing and for the players to understand that. It’s still very early days.”

Since his appointment, Maresca has impressed at Stamford Bridge, guiding Chelsea to fourth place in the Premier League after their first seven matches, with only one loss against Manchester City on the opening day. Fans will be hopeful that Maresca’s early success continues, as Chelsea looks to build on their promising start under the Italian manager.