Chelsea appoint Leicester manager Enzo Maresca to replace Mauricio Pochettino – South London News

Chelsea have appointed Leicester manager Enzo Maresca as their new boss on a five-year contract with the option of an additional year.

He replaces Mauricio Pochettino at Stamford Bridge, who led the Blues to sixth in the Premier League last season.

Maresca took charge of the Foxes in June 2023 and led them to the Championship title last term.

The 44-year-old is Chelsea’s fourth permanent managerial appointment since US investor Todd Boehly and private equity firm Clearlake Capital bought the club in May 2022.

Italian Maresca will start his new role on July 1.

Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley, Chelsea’s joint sporting directors, said: “We are delighted to welcome Enzo to Chelsea. He has proven to be an excellent trainer capable of delivering impressive results with an interesting and identifiable style.

“Enzo impressed us deeply in our discussions leading up to his appointment. Ambitions and work ethic align with those of the club. We look forward to working with him.

The Chelsea ownership group said: “We are delighted to welcome Enzo to the Chelsea family. We look forward to supporting him and the rest of the sports team to fulfill their potential and our expectations for years to come.

“He is a very talented coach and leader who we are confident can help deliver our vision and competitive goals for the club.”

Maresca said: “Joining Chelsea, one of the biggest clubs in the world, is a dream for any manager. That’s why I’m so excited about 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.”

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