Enzo Maresca’s comments following Chelsea’s win against Everton have sparked speculation about his future – with potential successors including Gareth Southgate already under consideration
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca surprisingly went off script following Saturday’s victory over Everton.
After what seemed like a standard win for the Blues at Stamford Bridge, the Italian gaffer stated the previous 48 hours had been “the hardest” since he joined the club. Maresca then suggested he wasn’t getting enough “support” from those around him, although he didn’t specify who he was referring to, reports the Mirror.
Given Chelsea’s track record with managerial appointments and dismissals, it wouldn’t be shocking if his remarks have unsettled those higher up. While this may not immediately trigger a managerial change, the club’s top brass might already be considering potential replacements for Maresca. Chelsea could take several paths – they could hire a currently employed manager or offer the position to someone who is currently without a club. But who might be in the running if Chelsea decide to part ways with Maresca?
Zinedine Zidane
A serial winner, the Frenchman has been unemployed since leaving Real Madrid for the second time in 2021. That’s not to say he hasn’t been linked with other positions; both Manchester United and the French national team have reportedly considered him in the past.
There’s no question that Zidane would bring an impressive pedigree to West London. His trophy cabinet includes three Champions League titles, two league titles, and numerous other accolades.
Whether Zidane is open to a move to West London remains uncertain, but his appointment would undoubtedly be a massive coup for Chelsea.
Gareth Southgate
Southgate, who has been out of work since stepping down as England manager, has consistently emphasised that he’s not actively seeking new employment. However, the resources available to him as Chelsea boss could prove too tempting to resist.
It’s worth noting that Southgate hasn’t managed in the Premier League for nearly two decades, with his last stint at Middlesbrough ending in 2009.
Liam Rosenior
Chelsea co-controlling owner and chairman Todd Boehly could leverage his football connections to secure one of the world’s most promising young managers.
Rosenior made a name for himself during early stints with Derby County and Hull City before taking the reins at French club Strasbourg in 2024.
He has continued his rise since then, guiding Strasbourg to a seventh-place finish last season. Although Rosenior signed a new contract earlier this year, securing his services could be relatively straightforward given his current employer is BlueCo..
Frank Lampard
The idea of Lampard returning to Stamford Bridge might seem laughable to some, but it wouldn’t be the first time. The legendary former midfielder has already had two managerial spells at the club.
Frank Lampard has certainly managed to restore his reputation. He’s got Coventry City soaring at the top of the Championship, and the Sky Blues are looking like a solid bet for a Premier League spot.
Regardless of the outcome, it seems likely that Lampard will be back in a Stamford Bridge dugout next season.
Brendan Rodgers
Rodgers, another figure with ties to West London, began his successful career within the Chelsea academy.
After climbing the ranks, he had notable stints with Swansea City, Liverpool and Leicester City, clinching the FA Cup with the latter.
His two tenures at Celtic were also filled with silverware, an aspect that could make him highly attractive to Chelsea. Currently without a club after leaving Celtic under a cloud, Rodgers is available.
Erik ten Hag
A somewhat unexpected choice, Ten Hag was dismissed by Man United last season despite securing the League Cup and FA Cup during his time with the Red Devils.
He also had a peculiar stint with German side Bayer Leverkusen, being let go after just two league matches.
While this might deter Chelsea, as a cost-effective option with the potential for trophies, Ten Hag could emerge as a contender for the Blues.