Chelsea appoint Enzo Maresca as new head coach

Chelsea have announced Enzo Maresca as their new head coach on a five-year contract with the option for a further 12 months.

Enzo Maresca joins Chelsea after just one season at Leicester City. The Italian led the Foxes to promotion back to the Premier League as Championship winners.

Chelsea have been in talks with Maresca ever since Mauricio Pochettino departure was announced.

Maresca told Chelsea club channels: “‘To join Chelsea, one of the biggest clubs in the world, is a dream for any coach. It is why I am so excited by 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.”

In a statement, Chelsea’s co-sporting directors, Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley, said: “We are delighted to welcome Enzo to Chelsea. He has proven himself to be an excellent coach capable of delivering impressive results with an exciting and identifiable style.

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

Prior to his success with Leicester City, Maresca spent half a year in charge of Italian side Parma, winning only four games out of 14 before being sacked.

Earlier in his career, Maresca spent time as manager of Manchester City’s Elite Development Squad and on Pep Guardiola’s coaching staff.