Enzo Maresca was dismissed from his role as Chelsea's head coach on January 1, 2026, after an 18-month tenure marked by both success and significant friction. His departure came amid a reported breakdown in his relationship with the club's hierarchy and a dismal run of results in late 2025, where Chelsea managed only one win in their last seven Premier League games. Sources indicated growing tensions and a lack of support, with Maresca himself describing a period as his "worst 48 hours" at the club. There were also reports of Maresca holding discussions with other clubs, including Manchester City and Juventus, which he was contractually obliged to disclose, further straining his relationship with Chelsea officials. Despite the abrupt ending, Maresca's time at Stamford Bridge was not without silverware. He led Chelsea to victory in the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup in 2025, also securing Champions League qualification by finishing fourth in the Premier League during his first season. However, a subsequent slump in form saw the team slip to fifth in the Premier League, 15 points behind leaders Arsenal, prompting the club to make a change. Following Maresca's exit, Liam Rosenior was officially appointed as Chelsea's new head coach on January 6, 2026, signing a six-and-a-half-year deal. Rosenior, formerly with Strasbourg, steps into the role with Chelsea still competing in multiple competitions, including the Champions League, FA Cup, and Carabao Cup.