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Chelsea have launched a fierce attack on Enzo Maresca after the Italian was officially unveiled as Manchester City’s new manager. In a highly unusual step, the west London club issued a stinging statement that deliberately avoided mentioning their former head coach by name after he agreed to replace Pep Guardiola at the Etihad Stadium.

In their official communication released on Monday, Chelsea made no attempt to conceal their discontent. Although the club had approved the move, the management took the extraordinary decision to address supporters directly, providing a detailed account of Maresca’s departure – without explicitly naming him.

The statement opened with: “Chelsea FC recognises that the 2025/26 season was a deeply disappointing one for the club and its fans. One major factor was the disruption caused by changes to the head coach position over the Christmas period. Given recent events, we believe it is important to clarify to our supporters what occurred and why our former head coach left on January 1, 2026.”

Chelsea’s leadership accused Maresca of divided loyalty, claiming they first learned of his interest in the Manchester City job during the autumn, which they believe undermined their campaign. The club explained: “In autumn last year, our former head coach informed us there might be an opportunity for him to succeed Pep Guardiola at the end of the season.

“It became obvious that he was determined to take on that role and was fully focused on pursuing it, despite being under a long-term contract which offered him no right to resign unilaterally.

“In December 2025, our head coach unexpectedly and abruptly stepped down. We were naturally disappointed as we felt his focus had shifted to another club and another opportunity, even though he had only joined Chelsea the previous year.

“No club wishes to replace its head coach midway through a season. However, in view of his decision not to continue fulfilling his duties until the end of the campaign, the club had no option but to protect our players, supporters and the badge by accepting his resignation.”

Although the manner of Maresca’s exit was contentious, Chelsea confirmed that financial matters have now been settled. The club stated that a confidential agreement had been reached with both Manchester City and the coach himself, with reports suggesting compensation of around £17 million. “Given the mutual respect between the clubs, a confidential settlement has been reached with Manchester City, which includes payment of compensation. A confidential settlement has also been reached with the former Head Coach, under which he will pay compensation,” the statement added.

Responding on social media, Maresca admitted he was the driving force behind his departure. “At the end of December 2025, I made the tough choice to leave Chelsea,” he wrote. “It was entirely my decision. My resignation opened the door for me to join Manchester City, a club I know extremely well. I am thrilled to have taken this opportunity.

“I recognise that leaving Chelsea mid-season created disruption, and I sincerely apologise for that. It was never my intention. I was treated wonderfully at Chelsea, and we achieved great success and memories that I will always cherish. I am thankful to the club, the owners, and the fans for the opportunity.”

Despite the bitter parting, Chelsea turned their focus to the future under new manager Xabi Alonso, who has already taken charge at Stamford Bridge. In what appeared to be a subtle dig at Maresca, the club praised Alonso’s character: “As we look ahead to next season, in Xabi Alonso we have a manager with an exceptional football mind and the highest professional integrity. He possesses all the qualities to bring the success our supporters deserve and expect.”

Maresca leaves behind a mixed legacy in London. Although he led the Blues to triumphs in the Conference League and Club World Cup, his abrupt mid-season exit remains a sore point for the club’s hierarchy. He now faces the immense challenge of filling the shoes of Pep Guardiola, a manager who defined Manchester City’s era of dominance.