The recent developments concerning Enzo Maresca have created a precarious situation for Leicester City, making his return as manager highly unlikely. If his potential move to Chelsea falls through, Maresca will likely have other opportunities to explore.
It’s worth noting that Maresca has twice left his role at Manchester City to pursue first-team managerial positions, first with Parma in 2021 and then with Leicester City two years later. His desire to understand Leicester’s financial fair play (FFP) and profitability and sustainability regulations (PSR) situation indicates his cautious approach. Seeking clarity from the club’s ownership and management could explain his interest in the Chelsea job.
The risk is evident. Leicester are uncertain about potential sanctions when the season begins, and if they start with a -10 point deduction, a move to Chelsea seems sensible. Maresca might leave Leicester even without securing a contract with Chelsea.
Having already declined an offer from Sevilla, Maresca will undoubtedly attract other managerial offers. The Chelsea job, with its significant ambitions, is one no manager would turn down.
Chelsea aims for more than just a top-six finish in English football and minimal European competition, making Maresca, with his credentials, a fitting candidate to succeed Mauricio Pochettino.
We anticipate that Maresca will depart Leicester, and with the looming possibility of a points deduction, attracting top managerial candidates could be challenging. High-profile names such as Graham Potter, Roberto De Zerbi, David Moyes, Carlos Corberan, Kieran McKenna, Rob Edwards, and Steve Cooper are unlikely to consider a role that involves potential points deductions, selling key players, and downsizing the squad. These managers would also command salaries that Leicester might not be willing to match, even if they receive a substantial fee for Maresca.
Maresca’s departure, while unfortunate, aligns with his unyielding approach and firm beliefs, which may be better suited to a club like Chelsea rather than a potentially struggling Leicester side. The speed at which Chelsea moved to consider Maresca as an alternative was unexpected but now seems clear.
Possible replacements for Maresca at Leicester include out-of-work managers like Frank Lampard, Wayne Rooney, and David Wagner. Despite their recent struggles, these managers possess considerable football knowledge and have experience working in challenging environments.
Rooney, for instance, fought valiantly at Derby County, nearly overcoming significant obstacles. Lampard managed Chelsea under severe restrictions and saw his squad win the Champions League under Thomas Tuchel. Wagner led Huddersfield Town to the Premier League and kept them there for a season, later guiding Norwich City into the Championship playoffs on a tight budget.
Other potential candidates include current Queens Park Rangers manager Marti Cifuentes, who is accustomed to working within constraints.
However, luring him from QPR could prove difficult given his current success there. Liam Rosenior, a young and promising manager doing excellent work at Hull City, would be an ideal candidate. Leicester would be wise to approach him for this challenge.
Best and Possible Candidates:
Favourite:
- Liam Rosenior
Other Possible Options:
- Wayne Rooney
- Frank Lampard
- Marti Cifuentes
- David Wagner
Leicester’s managerial future remains uncertain, but there are several viable candidates who could steer the club through its challenges, whether or not they face a points deduction.