Fans are just realising who Enzo Maresca's assistant will be at Chelsea as appointment confirmed
Chelsea have pulled off a surprise by appointing Enzo Maresca as their new head coach, following Mauricio Pochettino's departure. While fans initially anticipated a familiar face from the Premier League circuit, the Blues have opted for the Italian who orchestrated Leicester City's triumphant return to the top flight.
Maresca's impressive single season at Leicester, guiding them to the Championship title, propelled him to the forefront of Chelsea's search. Though Thomas Frank and Kieran McKenna were considered, Maresca's quick turnaround with the Foxes ultimately won him the job.
A five-year deal with a potential extension signifies Chelsea's long-term vision for Maresca. He arrives not alone, bringing six members of his trusted coaching staff, including a familiar figure for Chelsea fans - former goalkeeper Willy Caballero.
Caballero, a fan favorite during his stint at Stamford Bridge (2017-2021), returns in a coaching capacity after a successful playing career. His experience, including crucial penalty saves in the 2016 League Cup final, will be invaluable to the team.
The rest of Maresca's backroom team comprises Danny Walker, Michele De Bernardin, Marcos Alvarez, Javi Molina, and Roberto Vitiello. This cohesive unit aims to replicate the winning formula Maresca established at Leicester.
"This is a dream come true," declared Maresca on Chelsea's website. "To lead a club with Chelsea's rich history is an incredible honor. I'm eager to work with this talented squad and build a team that continues the club's winning ways and fills our fans with pride."
Maresca's appointment injects a fresh perspective into Chelsea. His success story with Leicester and his focus on developing a winning team will be key as he embarks on this exciting new chapter at Stamford Bridge.