Chelsea publicly released a statement regarding Enzo Maresca’s departure from the club, stating that his head and heart were focused on Manchester City rather than Chelsea. The club asserted that Maresca first expressed a desire to replace Pep Guardiola in the autumn of 2025 and resigned abruptly in December 2025. Chelsea noted that Maresca was under a long-term contract with no right to terminate it. Maresca has since been appointed as the manager of Manchester City, succeeding Guardiola.

Accounts differ on the specific timing of the exit. Chelsea stated that Maresca resigned in December 2025, while other sources indicate his exit occurred on New Year’s Day. Chelsea stated they accepted Maresca's resignation to protect the club. There was speculation that Chelsea would recoup approximately £17m in compensation for Maresca's departure, with reports that the club's hierarchy pushed for substantial compensation for him leaving his contract early.

The departure was preceded by turmoil at the club. Maresca did not attend the post-match press conference after a 2-2 draw with Bournemouth, and assistant Willy Caballero spoke on his behalf. Reports of Maresca being ill were false; he was determined to leave at that stage. Maresca did not say goodbye to the players after the Bournemouth match.

Following Maresca's departure, Liam Rosenior was appointed as Chelsea manager and was subsequently sacked. Chelsea finished 10th in the league and missed out on European competition. Rosenior led the team to five consecutive matches without scoring.