Chelsea’s fury at Maresca’s exit as City pay $22.5m for his services

Chelsea have issued a scathing response to Enzo Maresca’s appointment at Manchester City, confirming both clubs agreed to a $22.5 million payment for his services. The Blues described Maresca’s exit from London last season as “unexpected and abrupt,” adding that his resignation in late December caused disruption after he clashed with the club over transfer policy and a refusal to sign veteran players. Chelsea stated that Maresca’s decision to leave mid-season “let down” the club, while praising new boss Xabi Alonso as “a professional of the highest integrity.” Their statement framed the former manager’s departure as a direct consequence of Pep Guardiola’s impending exit from City. The club claimed that when Manchester City first expressed interest, Chelsea reluctantly permitted Maresca to speak to them only on the condition he would leave this summer and only if Guardiola departed. Both conditions were later met.

Chelsea’s scathing account clashes with City’s optimism on Maresca deal

Maresca responded by taking full responsibility for his resignation, insisting the decision was his alone and denying Chelsea had asked him to leave. He apologized for the mid-season upheaval but emphasized his excitement at joining Manchester City, a club he described as one he knew very well. Manchester City and Maresca reached agreements with Chelsea over the compensation, with the Blues set to receive $22.5 million for his appointment. Chelsea’s statement framed the 2025-26 season as “hugely disappointing,” directly linking Maresca’s exit to the instability caused by changes to the head coach position over the Christmas period. Maresca’s move to Manchester City comes as the club prepares for a new era under his leadership, though Chelsea’s public rebuke underscores the sensitivity of the transition.