Just a few weeks ago, Enzo Maresca looked safe as Chelsea manager after a strong run of results. The team was winning games, and the football was easy to enjoy for fans. That mood changed after one emotional press conference following a calm win over Everton.
Enzo Maresca spoke about feeling unsupported, and his words surprised many people inside the club. At Chelsea, moments like this often matter as much as results. If Maresca leaves earlier than expected, one name already stands out as a clear replacement.
Pressure Builds at Chelsea After Maresca’s Comments
Chelsea are once again under pressure even though recent results have been positive. Last summer, Enzo Maresca led Chelsea to victory in the Club World Cup, which brought praise from fans and media. Still, the owners expect fast success every season. Maresca’s recent comments suggested problems away from the pitch, with some believing issues exist between the manager and club bosses.
Chelsea are close to the top five and pushing for a place in the Champions League. Past seasons show that good results do not always save Chelsea managers. With big cup games and tough league matches coming soon, small problems could quickly grow into serious ones.
Why Chelsea Think Andoni Iraola Is the Best Replacement
If Chelsea decide to change managers, there will be a discussion of several names. Liam Rosenior has done good work at Strasbourg, a club linked to Chelsea’s owners, and he is known for working well with young players. He also understands how long-term projects work. Oliver Glasner has earned respect after winning the FA Cup with Crystal Palace on a small budget. However, his more defensive style may not fully suit Chelsea’s attacking players or the club’s demands.
The strongest option remains Andoni Iraola, the current Bournemouth manager. Since arriving in the Premier League in 2023, he has changed how Bournemouth play and how they are viewed. His team plays fast football and presses high up the pitch. They attack with confidence and energy, which often causes problems for stronger teams. Iraola wants his players to be brave and fearless in every match. He chose to follow Marcelo Bielsa’s path, but he has clearly built a style of his own.
Iraola is also very good at improving young players, which suits Chelsea well. Players like Antoine Semenyo, Milos Kerkez, and Dominic Solanke have all grown under his guidance. Chelsea’s squad is young and still improving, so a coach like Iraola could help them develop together. He is flexible and not afraid to use players in new positions if it helps the team. His sides are fit, brave, and hard to predict, which are qualities Chelsea often lack in big matches.
Fans Turn as Pressure Grows
Blues fans are divided about Maresca’s future. Some supporters still back him and feel his honesty shows how much he cares. Others believe his comments may have hurt his relationship with the board. On social media, talks about possible replacements are growing. Iraola’s name appears often, with fans praising his bold football and calm nature.
Media reports have also connected him with several big clubs across Europe. This shows how quickly his name has grown in the game. For fans tired of short-term answers, Iraola feels like a smart and exciting choice.
A Decision That Changes Everything
Changing the manager would affect every part of Chelsea. Young players need stability to improve, while a new coach would also change transfer plans and how the team plays. If Chelsea choose Iraola, it could shape the club’s style for many years.
His football suits a young squad and could help Chelsea perform better in big games. Waiting too long could be risky, as other top clubs may also move for Iraola.
Author’s Opinion
As featured on Chelseanews.com
