From Medical Staff Clashes to Manchester City Talks: The Reasons Behind Maresca's Chelsea Exit

Details continue to emerge regarding Enzo Maresca's departure from Chelsea, with media reports indicating that the club's management and agent Jorge Mendes began negotiations concerning his exit last night, ahead of today's official announcement on Thursday. The decision was made by unanimous agreement of the club's board, who deemed a change necessary to get the season back on track.

According to the same sources, one of the primary reasons for the tension between the Italian coach and Chelsea was disagreements with the club's medical department. Chelsea insists that decisions regarding player workload and health remain independent and not subject to the coach's authority, while Maresca felt a lack of support and interventions that affected his work, which he considered an issue related to ownership.

It also emerged that Maresca was not ill after the Bournemouth match, as had been announced, but rather chose not to appear publicly while evaluating his future with the club. In a surprise within the club, reports suggest recent talks between Manchester City and Maresca, which some at Chelsea viewed as an indication of the coach's divided focus.

Chelsea's management was also dissatisfied with the results, particularly after squandering 20 points despite leading in Premier League and Champions League matches. This raised concerns about the team's lack of mental fortitude under the Italian coach's leadership.

Despite these developments, the club does not intend to change its project or current operating model. The shortlist of candidates to succeed Maresca includes a few names, most notably Liam Rosenior, the current coach of French club Strasbourg.