Chelsea have always been extremely harsh on their managers. Over the years, we’ve seen the London club sack managers for fun, despite some of them bringing success. Frank Lampard, who built a great Chelsea side, and Thomas Tuchel, who brought the elusive Champions League trophy to Chelsea, are a couple of names who received the sack under extremely harsh conditions. As the current manager, Enzo Maresca faces a difficult period at the club, rumours begin to spread in the air. David Ornstein, a reputed journalist at The Athletic, has shared his say on this matter. David Ornstein believes there is a possibility of Maresca leaving Chelsea next season. He has also shared a name who could potentially be Maresca’s replacement at Chelsea.
David Ornstein about Enzo Maresca
Enzo Maresca is part of the manager group who rose from the mentorship of the legendary Pep Guardiola. Some names from the group include Xabi Alonso, Vincent Kompany, and Mikel Arteta. Enzo Maresca began his managerial career with the Manchester City U-21 team, followed by Parma, Leicester City, and finally getting hold of the Chelsea job in 2024. Ever since joining, he has had a constant positive effect on the club. The London club most notably won the Club World Cup last season, stamping their authority amongst the big European clubs.
Maresca has not necessarily had a “bad” season this time around, either. Chelsea sit in a very good position on the league table, with European football looking very likely next season. The team continues to build great momentum. Maresca’s boys even went on to dominate European giants Barcelona in a memorable UCL night at Stamford Bridge. Despite all this, there seems to be developing tension between Maresca and the Chelsea board in the last few weeks. And David Ornstein has shared interesting news about Maresca potentially replacing Pep Guardiola at Manchester City in a shock move.
Maresca and Manchester City according to Ornstein
Pep Guardiola has been Manchester City manager for close to a decade now. Last season, it was clearly visible that the iconic manager was slowly running out of steam. The Spaniard saw mixed results and reduced domination of the league. Guardiola choosing to take a break or even retiring at some point is highly possible. We already saw Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp resigning his manager role. He claimed he was “tired”. Ornstein believes Guardiola could potentially choose to leave Manchester City next season. Ornstein also believes Enzo Maresca would be the most likely candidate to replace Guardiola.
However, when asked about whether he will stay at Stamford Bridge next season, Enzo Maresca said, āAbsolutely, yes. Again, I have a contract until 2029, and this is speculation. I donāt have anything to add. Because I donāt pay attention. And if we continue to talk about that, that means Iām paying attention to that.ā
Ornstein names Maresca replacement
David Ornstein has not just talked about Maresca moving to Manchester City; he has also named his replacement at Chelsea. āThere are many people who are already saying Liam Rosenior at Strasbourg is going to be a Chelsea manager in the future. Whether itās in the immediate, medium, or longer term. And that shows their contingency plans. Like all well-organised top clubs will be in place in one way, shape or form.ā This was David Ornstein talking about Liam Rosenior. Rosenior is currently managing Strasbourg. He brought European football to Strasbourg in just his first season in charge.
Conclusion
Ornstein has added fuel to a fire that was already bright and red. Pep Guardiola’s decision to leave Manchester City is going to shock Premier League fans. Enzo Maresca replacing him at Manchester City is only going to increase that feeling of shock. Interesting few months ahead, nevertheless.
As featured on Chelseanews.com
