Chelsea considering shock appointment of former player should Maresca leave

Cameron Smith

• Updated: 23 Dec 2025 11:09 CST
• 3 min read

Nieuws

Chelsea have reportedly earmarked former defender Filipe Luis as their ideal next manager amid rumours that Enzo Maresca could be sacked.

The Italian has been heavily linked with the Stamford Bridge exit door after recent comments aimed at the club’s hierarchy and Manchester City are among the clubs keeping close tabs on his situation in west London.

Strasbourg boss Liam Rosenior has been tipped to replace Maresca at Chelsea if he departs the reigning Club World Cup champions, although Fichajes now claim that Luis has been identified as the Blues’ top target.

The former Chelsea defender, who made 26 appearances for the club in 2014-15 before returning to Atletico Madrid, is currently the head coach of Brazilian side Flamengo.

Luis has been in the role for over a year and he enjoyed a sublime 2025 campaign, guiding Flamengo to the Brazilian Serie A title and Copa Libertadores glory. His burgeoning pedigree in the managerial game has been spotted by the Chelsea board and they are reportedly keen to bring him back to Stamford Bridge if Maresca departs next year.

Enzo Maresca admits desire to stay at Chelsea

While Maresca continues to be linked with a Chelsea exit, the Blues boss recently confirmed his intention to remain at Stamford Bridge for the foreseeable future.

When asked if he will still be in charge next season, Maresca told reporters: “Absolutely, yes. Again, I have a contract until 2029, and this is speculation 100%.

“I don’t have anything to add, because again, I don’t pay attention. And if we continue to talk about that, that means that I’m paying attention to that.

“It doesn’t affect me at all because I know that is 100% speculation. At this moment, there is no time for these kinds of things. First of all, because I have a contract here until 2029, probably.

“My focus, I said many times, is just about this club and I’m very proud to be here. But again, it’s speculation.

“One week ago it was in Italy, the same with Juventus. So I don’t pay attention because I know that is not true.

“It’s important to understand the reason why this news was there. But it’s not my job, I don’t care at all. But again, it’s just speculation.”

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