Transfers
Chelsea’s Maresca exit sparks compensation claims from Stamford Bridge
The Stamford Bridge corridors were still echoing with the aftertaste of Enzo Maresca’s abrupt departure when Chelsea took to X to voice their displeasure.
The London club posted a statement within hours of Maresca’s presentation at Manchester City, insisting the Italian’s January exit was timed to coincide with Pep Guardiola’s potential departure from City.
Chelsea noted that Maresca had been informed by his former club in the previous autumn that he might succeed Guardiola at the end of the season.
‘In the autumn of last year the club was informed by our former head coach about the possibility he would succeed Guardiola at the end of the season,’ the statement read.
‘It became clear he wanted to take over from Guardiola and would seize that chance regardless of the long-term contract he held that he could not simply terminate.’
Maresca handed in his Chelsea resignation in December, leaving the Blues feeling abandoned mid-season.
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‘Because we felt his head and heart were already elsewhere despite having joined Chelsea only the year before, no club wants to change head coach in the middle of a season,’ the statement continued. Chelsea accepted Maresca’s decision reluctantly, confirming a confidential settlement with Manchester City that included a financial compensation package. ‘In these circumstances and given the mutual respect between the clubs, a confidential settlement has been reached with Manchester City, including the payment of compensation. A confidential settlement has also been reached with the former head coach, who will pay compensation,’ the club said. British media report Manchester City will pay Chelsea twenty million euros. The amount Maresca contributes to London remains undisclosed. Maresca addressed the situation on Instagram, offering apologies for the disruption at Chelsea. ‘In December I made the difficult choice to leave the club. That decision was mine. My resignation cleared the way to Manchester City. I am overjoyed to be working at Manchester City now.’ ‘I recognise my departure mid-season caused unrest. I apologise for that; it was neither my intention nor my wish,’ he added. ‘I was always well treated by everyone at Chelsea. Together we achieved successes and made memories I will never forget. Finally, the manager thanked the club, owners and fans for the opportunity he received at Stamford Bridge.’