Enzo Maresca sack latest: Expert drops surprise ‘owners’ verdict
Enzo Maresca has led Chelsea to a trophy in his first season in charge at Stamford Bridge after they beat Real Betis 4-1 in the Uefa Conference League final.
The 45-year-old also oversaw a fourth-place finish for the Blues, with a final-day win over Nottingham Forest securing their Champions League qualification for next season.
Despite his success compared to predecessors Mauricio Pochettino and Graham Potter, Maresca has faced vocal criticism from the Chelsea faithful this term.
He is under contract at Stamford Bridge until June 2029 after arriving from Leicester last year (2024).
Everton’s former chief Keith Wyness – who served as CEO at Goodison Park between 2004 and 2009 and now runs a football consultancy advising elite clubs – insisted he still has “question marks” over Maresca’s ability in the hot seat at Chelsea.
Champions League qualification was ‘life-saver’ for Maresca and Chelsea, says Wyness
Speaking on the new edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, Wyness claimed “it hasn’t been a great season” for Chelsea despite their Conference League win and top-four finish.
The Blues showed early promise in the title race but tailed off leaders Liverpool and Arsenal in the second half of the 2024-25 campaign.
Wyness claimed Champions League qualification was a “life-saver” for the club.
| Games | 57 |
| Wins | 35 |
| Draws | 9 |
| Losses | 13 |
| Goals (For / Against) | 120 / 59 |
He told Football Insider‘s Inside Track podcast: “For the fans at Stamford Bridge, they need those glory nights at Stamford Bridge in the Champions League.
“This was crucial for them, but it was by no means a lock-in for Chelsea at the end of this season.
“It was close, and it hasn’t been a great season. They didn’t do it easily.
“There are still some big question marks around Maresca’s job, in my opinion. Although the owners have probably learned that stability is better than quick wins.
“It was important for Chelsea to qualify to quell any unrest in the fans, and it was a bit of a lifesaver.”
Guehi opens door to Chelsea return
Meanwhile, Football Insider has revealed (20 May) that Crystal Palace’s FA Cup win will not make a massive difference to the future of Marc Guehi.
Sources say Palace hope Europa League qualification will persuade the England international to stay – but they will find it tough.
Guehi is only under contract at Selhurst Park until June 2026.
Football Insider revealed in March that Newcastle, Tottenham and Chelsea will race Liverpool to land Guehi this summer – while Arsenal have also been linked.
For more Chelsea and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.