Chelsea targets Eddie Howe to replace sacked Enzo Maresca

Three days after dismissing Enzo Maresca on New Year's Day, Chelsea has approached Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe as a leading candidate for the vacant role. The Blues sit fifth in the Premier League after their recent 2-2 draw with Bournemouth and face Manchester City next under interim coach Calum McFarlane.

Chelsea's hunt for Enzo Maresca's successor gained momentum with reports of direct talks involving Eddie Howe and his representatives. The Newcastle manager, who has transformed the club over four years into a trophy contender, is seen as a marquee option despite complications from Newcastle's ongoing campaigns.

A move for Howe would command a substantial compensation package, reflecting his status among Britain's elite coaches. Meanwhile, Liam Rosenior, head coach of Chelsea co-owned Strasbourg, remains in contention alongside other names.

Maresca's 18-month stint ended amid disagreements with the hierarchy, despite his triumphs in the Europa Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup. With the season at a critical juncture—including League Cup semifinals, FA Cup, and Champions League qualification hopes—Chelsea requires stability ahead of Saturday's clash with Manchester City.

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Dramatic photorealistic illustration of Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca leaving Stamford Bridge after being sacked on New Year's Day amid poor form.
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Chelsea sack Enzo Maresca on New Year's Day amid poor form and relations breakdown

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Chelsea parted ways with manager Enzo Maresca on New Year's Day 2026 after 18 months, following a winless run and deteriorating relations with owners Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital. The Italian, who won the UEFA Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup in his debut season, is replaced on an interim basis by Under-21s coach Calum McFarlane ahead of the Manchester City clash. Strasbourg's Liam Rosenior emerges as the frontrunner to succeed him.

Enzo Maresca has departed as Chelsea manager after 18 months in charge, following a poor run of form and a reported deterioration in his relationship with the club's hierarchy. The Italian guided Chelsea to fourth place in the Premier League last season, along with victories in the Conference League and Club World Cup, but recent results left them 15 points behind leaders Arsenal. Chelsea believe a change will help salvage their season across four competitions.

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Chelsea have appointed Liam Rosenior as their new head coach on a six-and-a-half-year deal until 2032, following Enzo Maresca's sacking on New Year's Day. The 41-year-old joins from sister club Strasbourg amid mixed reactions over his experience. His first match will be an FA Cup third-round tie against Charlton Athletic.

Darren Fletcher has been named Manchester United's interim head coach following Ruben Amorim's dismissal amid tactical and transfer disputes with director Jason Wilcox. As United prepare for Burnley, new reactions from Pep Guardiola, betting odds on successors, and potential January exits for Joshua Zirkzee and Manuel Ugarte have emerged.

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Chelsea travel to Naples to face Napoli in Matchday 8 of the 2025/2026 UEFA Champions League league phase on January 28, 2026. The Blues hold the eighth and final automatic qualification spot for the last 16 after a 1-0 win over Pafos, while Napoli sit 25th and must avoid defeat to keep their hopes alive. Goal difference could prove decisive in the tight standings.

Chelsea rescued a 2-2 draw against Qarabag in Baku during the Champions League league phase, thanks to a second-half goal from substitute Alejandro Garnacho. The match highlighted Chelsea's squad rotation amid a Club World Cup hangover and an early injury to Romeo Lavia. Qarabag impressed with goals from Leandro Andrade and Marko Jankovic, pushing Chelsea all the way.

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Mikel Arteta has called Arsenal's EFL Cup semi-final against Chelsea a key 'mission' to secure the club's first major trophy in nearly six years. The Gunners face the Blues at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday, amid injury concerns for both sides. New Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior sees the match as a chance to build momentum in his first home game.

 

 

 

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