Leicester City ‘disappointed’ by Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea decision – full statement

Leicester City have wished Maresca well for the future, but are disappointed by the timing of his leaving, while also admitting that their search for his successor has commenced.

Leicester City have expressed their dissatisfaction with Enzo Maresca’s decision to quit the club after just 12 months to join Chelsea. In announcing the Italian’s resignation from the King Power Stadium on Monday afternoon, City suggested they were upset with the timing of Maresca’s move to Stamford Bridge and that he “no longer wants to be part of our vision”.

The 44-year-old signed a three-year contract with City last summer, but after helping the club return to the Premier League in his first season, he decided to go after Chelsea came knocking.

Maresca has expressed his personal dissatisfaction with issues behind the scenes at the club and has requested talks with the administration.

Those meetings took place following the Championship title win, and Maresca had confirmed his commitment to the club, with preparations for the forthcoming Premier League season underway.

When Chelsea expressed interest, Maresca’s position altered. City is “disappointed” by this, but they also wish him well in his career. The club also revealed that his release clause, believed to be over £10 million, had been satisfied, and that the search for a new manager had begun.

In a statement, the club stated: “Leicester City Football Club can today confirm the departure of Enzo Maresca from his position as first team manager.” Given the strong foundations laid during his one season in command, the club is disappointed that Enzo has decided at this point that he no longer wishes to be a part of our vision.

“However, with Enzo’s decision taken and the board’s requirements for his departure accepted, we wish him well in his future pursuits. He leaves with the gratitude of everyone at the club for his efforts in assisting us in achieving a quick return to the Premier League during the 2023-24 season.

Staff members Willy Caballero, Danny Walker, Michele De Bernardin, Marcos Alvarez, Javier Molina Caballero, and Roberto Vitiello will also leave the club. The board will now begin the process of choosing a new manager to spearhead our return to the Premier League and continue to carry out our long-term strategy for Leicester City Football Club’s prosperity.”

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