Former Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca could be set for a swift return to management after being approached by a surprise club just weeks after his Stamford Bridge exit.
Leicester City have made contact with Maresca over a potential comeback to the King Power Stadium. The Italian guided the Foxes back to the Premier League in his sole season in charge before leaving for Chelsea, where his 18-month spell ended abruptly on New Year’s Day.
Following the dismissal of Marti Cifuentes, Leicester have placed Andy King in temporary charge but are exploring the possibility of bringing Maresca back on a short-term deal until the end of the season. The club are aware of his growing reputation, with the 45-year-old also linked to Tottenham and believed to have admirers at Manchester City should Pep Guardiola decide to step aside in the future.
That uncertainty has led Leicester to focus only on a short-term reunion. Despite occasional friction with supporters during his previous spell, Maresca delivered promotion in the 2023–24 campaign and collected four Championship Manager of the Month awards. The Foxes are hopeful he could help spark a late push for the play-offs.
A heavily incentive-based proposal has reportedly been put on the table, with Leicester mindful that Maresca is unlikely to commit beyond the summer amid interest from clubs in both England and Italy.
Maresca’s time at Chelsea ended following a breakdown in relations with the club’s hierarchy. After a Premier League win over Everton in December, he spoke candidly about the pressure surrounding the role.
“The last 48 hours have been the worst since I joined the club because many people didn’t support me and the team, in general,” he said.
When asked whether he was referring to supporters, Maresca replied: “I love the fans and we are very happy with the fans.”
He later added: “We are in an era where everyone can say what they think. I respect people’s opinions. I don’t have anything to add.”
After his dismissal, Maresca released a statement reflecting on his time at Stamford Bridge.
“My journey with Chelsea began with the preliminary rounds of the Conference League,” he said. “I leave with the inner peace of having worked at a prestigious club like Chelsea, where it deserves to be.
“I want to thank all the Chelsea fans for their support over the last 18 months. That support was crucial in achieving Champions League qualification, winning the Conference League and the Club World Cup, victories I will always cherish.
“A special thank you to the players who shared this journey with me. I wish everyone every success for the rest of the season and the future. Thank you, Chelsea, from me and my family.”
Chelsea, in their own statement, acknowledged Maresca’s achievements while explaining the decision.
“During his time at the club, Enzo led the team to success in the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup,” the club said. “Those achievements will remain an important part of the club’s recent history, and we thank him for his contribution.
“With key objectives still to play for across four competitions, including Champions League qualification, the club believes a change gives the team the best chance of getting the season back on track. We wish Enzo well for the future.”
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