Following a seemingly routine win against Everton, Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca dropped a bombshell. He described the preceding 48 hours as “the hardest” since joining the club, hinting at a lack of “support” from those around him. Given Chelsea’s notorious history with managers, these comments have immediately set the rumour mill buzzing, prompting speculation about who might be next in the hot seat.
If Chelsea decides to part ways with Maresca, the club’s top brass will have a range of options, from unemployed serial winners to promising young talents.
**Zinedine Zidane:** The legendary Frenchman, out of work since leaving Real Madrid in 2021, boasts an incredible trophy cabinet, including three Champions League titles. His pedigree is undeniable, but would he be tempted by West London?
**Gareth Southgate:** Recently stepped down as England manager, Southgate has claimed he’s not actively seeking new roles. However, the resources and challenge at Chelsea could be a powerful draw, despite his long absence from Premier League management.
**Liam Rosenior:** A rising star, Rosenior impressed at Derby and Hull before taking over French club Strasbourg (owned by BlueCo, Chelsea’s parent company). Guiding Strasbourg to seventh last season, his rapid ascent makes him an exciting, if somewhat unconventional, prospect.
**Frank Lampard:** A Chelsea legend with two previous managerial stints, Lampard is currently restoring his reputation at Coventry City, who are flying high in the Championship. Could a fairytale third return be on the cards?
**Brendan Rodgers:** With deep ties to Chelsea’s academy, Rodgers has a proven track record with Swansea, Liverpool, and Leicester, including an FA Cup win. Available after leaving Celtic, his silverware collection is attractive.
**Erik ten Hag:** Surprisingly dismissed by Man United despite winning the League and FA Cups, Ten Hag is a cost-effective option who has proven he can deliver trophies, albeit with some recent struggles.
The situation is fluid, but Maresca’s comments have certainly opened a Pandora’s Box of possibilities at Stamford Bridge.
Source: https://www.dailystar.co.uk/sport/football/enzo-maresca-sack-chelsea-manager-36399859
