Chelsea have issued a scathing statement holding Enzo Maresca accountable for their “hugely disappointing season,” shortly after the former Blues boss was officially named as Manchester City’s new manager.

Maresca departed Chelsea at the end of 2025 following rising friction with the club’s leadership. His exit triggered months of instability at Stamford Bridge, as the swift appointment of Liam Rosenior proved disastrous.

Under Rosenior, Chelsea endured their first-ever run since 1912 of five consecutive defeats without scoring. The slump caused the team to tumble down the Premier League table, eventually finishing 10th and missing out on European qualification.

Rumours had circulated that Maresca’s decision to leave Chelsea was driven by his ambition to succeed Pep Guardiola at Manchester City. The west London club has now confirmed this, openly accusing Maresca of undermining their campaign through his pursuit of another job.

Chelsea stated: “In the autumn of last year, our former head coach [Maresca] informed the club that there might be an opportunity for him to succeed Pep Guardiola at the end of the season.

“It became clear to us that it was his strong desire to pursue that opportunity, even though he remained under a long-term contract which he had no right to terminate.

“In December 2025, our head coach unexpectedly and abruptly resigned. We felt betrayed, as it was evident his focus was on another club and another challenge, despite having joined Chelsea only the previous year.

“No club wishes to replace its head coach midway through a season. However, given his refusal to continue fulfilling his role until the end of the campaign, the club had no choice but to act in the best interests of our players, fans, and badge, and accept his resignation.”

The Blues further revealed that they have reached a “confidential settlement” with Manchester City regarding Maresca’s move, reported to be worth £17 million. Additionally, Maresca himself will be liable to pay compensation for breaching his contract.

The statement concluded: “Looking ahead to next season, in Xabi Alonso we have a manager with a brilliant footballing mind and the utmost professionalism. He possesses all the qualities to bring the success our supporters expect and deserve.”

Maresca later took to Instagram to apologise for the manner of his departure, acknowledging the disruption caused by his mid-season exit.

“At the end of December 2025, I made the difficult decision to leave Chelsea,” Maresca wrote. “The choice was entirely mine. My resignation opened the door for me to join Manchester City, a club I know very well. I am thrilled to now be part of Manchester City.

“I understand that my departure from Chelsea during the season created difficulties for the club, and I apologise sincerely. That was never my intention.

“I was treated with respect by everyone at Chelsea, and together we created memories I will always cherish. I’m thankful to the club, the ownership, and the fans for the opportunity they gave me.”

Maresca, who previously served as Guardiola’s assistant between 2022 and 2023, also praised Manchester City’s operations, contrasting them with the frustrations he had expressed about Chelsea’s management.

“Manchester City is a club I know intimately, and to be given the chance to lead this team is a fantastic opportunity,” he said. “City is an exceptionally well-run organisation — everything they do is innovative, structured, and strategic. For a manager, that kind of environment is a dream. It gives me the consistency I need to perform at my best.”