Enzo Maresca to retain job even if Chelsea fail to reach Champions League - The Telegraph
Enzo Maresca’s future as Chelsea head coach is not in jeopardy, regardless of the club’s fate in their final three games. Even if Chelsea fail to secure a top-five Premier League finish and miss out on Champions League qualification, Maresca's position remains secure for the time being, according to The Telegraph.
Chelsea need to win their remaining fixtures against Manchester United and Nottingham Forest to guarantee a spot in next season's Champions League. However, Maresca could still finish his first season with Chelsea on a high note if the club secures the Europa Conference League trophy by defeating Real Betis in the final.
Maresca, who was appointed on a five-year contract last summer, was always planned to be given at least two full seasons before any performance reviews. The club has maintained that even if Chelsea’s Champions League hopes fall short, there is no intention of making any drastic coaching changes. Internally, missing out on Europe’s premier competition would be viewed as disappointing but not a crisis.
Furthermore, despite the club's focus on domestic league results, Chelsea's participation in the Club World Cup this summer means their season won't conclude with the Europa Conference League final.
A full assessment of Maresca’s first season is not expected until next year unless the club faces unforeseen circumstances or significant setbacks. Should Chelsea fail to qualify for the Champions League in two consecutive seasons under Maresca, it could cast doubt on his future, but this would depend on various factors.
If Maresca sees out the season as Chelsea’s manager, he will become the longest-serving head coach under the Todd Boehly-Clearlake Capital ownership, following the departures of Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter, and Mauricio Pochettino.
