As Chelsea edge closer to the conclusion of a rollercoaster season, questions are swirling about the future of head coach Enzo Maresca.

The Italian tactician, brought in from Leicester City last summer, was always seen as a long-term project—but with the pressure of delivering Champions League football mounting, many fans are asking: Will Chelsea sack Maresca if he fails to secure a top-five finish?

According to The Telegraph, the answer is a firm no—at least not yet.
Chelsea’s hierarchy, led by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, reportedly have no intention of making a rash decision based on one season. Maresca was handed a five-year contract with the clear understanding that building a new era at Stamford Bridge would take time. The club’s leadership is said to be focused on stability, especially after a turbulent managerial merry-go-round that saw Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter, and Mauricio Pochettino all depart in short succession.
Maresca has brought a fresh tactical identity to the team, and while results have been inconsistent, there is a sense that progress—though not linear—is being made. The club still has a shot at silverware in the form of the Europa Conference League, with a final against Real Betis on the horizon. Winning a European trophy in his debut season could go a long way in buying Maresca more goodwill, regardless of the league table.
Moreover, Chelsea are guaranteed to take part in the FIFA Club World Cup this summer, ensuring that their season won’t end with the Conference League final. That international exposure may help keep the pressure off Maresca as he continues to mold this young, promising squad into contenders.
Internally, missing out on Champions League qualification would be seen as a setback—but not a catastrophe. A full performance review isn’t expected until after next season. However, should Chelsea miss out on Champions League football again next year, the situation might become more precarious. Two seasons without Europe’s top-tier competition could prompt a rethink, particularly if on-pitch development stalls or fan dissatisfaction grows louder.
Interestingly, if Maresca finishes the season still in charge, he will become the longest-serving manager under the current ownership—a sign of just how quickly the coaching seat has become a hot one at the Bridge.
In short, Maresca’s job is safe for now. The club wants continuity, not chaos. But the expectations remain sky-high, and Maresca will know that improvement next season is non-negotiable.
What do you think—should Maresca be given more time, or is Chelsea’s patience starting to wear thin?
Let us know in the comments below.