Chelsea Football Club has officially approached Leicester City for permission to speak with their manager, Enzo Maresca, sources have told ESPN. The Italian has been identified as the preferred candidate to succeed Mauricio Pochettino at Stamford Bridge.

Enzo Maresca’s Rise to Prominence

Enzo Maresca, 44, has garnered significant attention after successfully guiding Leicester City back to the Premier League as winners of the Championship in his first campaign in charge this season. 

His impressive feat has led Chelsea’s owners to consider him as the ideal successor to Mauricio Pochettino, who left Chelsea by mutual consent following a season where he led the team to a sixth-place finish in the Premier League and a Carabao Cup final appearance.

Chelsea’s Managerial Search

In their search for a new manager, Chelsea has also considered former Brighton coach Roberto De Zerbi and Brentford’s Thomas Frank. However, Maresca’s recent success and his coaching philosophy have made him the frontrunner for the position.

Maresca’s Coaching Philosophy

Maresca is known for his preference for a possession-based game and has a track record of providing opportunities to young talents. 

His approach aligns with Chelsea’s vision, especially given that several Chelsea players, such as Cole Palmer and Romeo Lavia, previously worked with him during his tenure at Manchester City.

Potential Compensation

Sources have informed ESPN that Leicester City will likely demand compensation of around £9 million ($11.5 million) if they permit Maresca to engage in discussions with Chelsea. 

This figure reflects Maresca’s value and the impact he has had at Leicester.

Maresca’s Career Journey

Maresca’s coaching career has seen a steady progression. He had a brief stint as head coach of Italian club Parma in Serie B during the 2021–22 season and previously managed Manchester City’s reserve team to the Premier League 2 title. 

His experience as Pep Guardiola’s assistant at Manchester City has also been instrumental in shaping his tactical approach and managerial acumen.

Playing Career Achievements

As a player, Maresca enjoyed a successful career, winning Serie A with Juventus in 2002 and securing two UEFA Cups and a Copa del Rey with Sevilla. 

His rich experience as both a player and coach positions him as a promising candidate to lead Chelsea.

Chelsea’s Future Under Maresca

If Chelsea secures Maresca’s services, he will be tasked with revitalizing a squad that underperformed last season. His emphasis on a possession-based style and youth development could align well with Chelsea’s existing resources and long-term strategy.

Chelsea’s approach for Enzo Maresca marks a significant step in their efforts to appoint a new manager following Pochettino’s departure. 

Maresca’s recent success with Leicester City and his managerial philosophy make him an appealing choice for the role. 

As negotiations progress, Chelsea fans and the football community will be keenly watching to see if Maresca will indeed become the new man at the helm at Stamford Bridge.

The Information is Taken from ESPN and The Mirror