Enzo Maresca could land surprise new job weeks after fiery Chelsea exit

Leicester City have reached out to former promotion-winning manager Enzo Maresca about a surprise comeback to the King Power Stadium. The Italian, who led the Foxes back to the Premier League in his only season at the helm, was dismissed by Chelsea on New Year's Day following a tumultuous 18-month stint at Stamford Bridge.

Leicester, having parted ways with Marti Cifuentes, have appointed Andy King as their temporary manager but are keen for Maresca to step in on a short-term contract until the season's end. They are aware that the 45-year-old is highly regarded and has been linked with the Tottenham job, and also has influential supporters at Manchester City should Pep Guardiola choose to conclude his trophy-laden tenure.

This is why Leicester are not looking beyond the summer for their successful manager, who delivered results in the 2023-24 season, despite not always seeing eye-to-eye with the Foxes' fans, even though he was named Championship 'Manager of the Month' four times. Leicester are hopeful of a positive response from Maresca, as they haven't ruled out a late push for a promotion play-off spot.

A generous incentive-based offer has been presented to the Italian, knowing that he wouldn't commit beyond the summer with clubs in Italy and the UK showing interest in the highly sought-after coach.

Maresca's 18-month tenure at Stamford Bridge came to an abrupt end following a sudden deterioration in his relationship with the Chelsea board. Following a Premier League victory over Everton in December, the Italian said: "The last 48 hours has been the worst since I joined the club because many people didn't support me and the team. In general."

When questioned if he was referring to the club's supporters, he responded: "I love the fans and we are very happy with the fans."

He later told the media: "We are in an era where everyone can say what they think. I respect people's opinion. I don't have anything to add."

Upon his departure, Maresca released a statement saying: "My journey with Chelsea began with the preliminary rounds of the Conference League. I leave with the inner peace of leaving a prestigious club like Chelsea where it deserves to be.

"I want to thank all the Chelsea fans for their support over the last 18 months. Support that was crucial to achieving Champions League qualification, winning the Conference League, and winning the Club World Cup. Victories that I will always hold in my heart!

"A special thank you to all the players who have accompanied me on this wonderful journey. I wish everyone who has shared every moment with me every success in this second half of the season and in the future. Thank you, CHELSEA from me and my family."

While Chelsea said in their statement to announce the news: "During his time at the club, Enzo led the team to success in the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup. Those achievements will remain an important part of the club's recent history, and we thank him for his contributions to the club.

"With key objectives still to play for across four competitions including qualification for Champions League football, Enzo and the club believe a change gives the team the best chance of getting the season back on track. We wish Enzo well for the future."