The atmosphere around Stamford Bridge is growing increasingly tense as Chelsea’s recent form continues to falter. A single Premier League victory in the last seven matches has quickly extinguished any realistic ambitions of a title challenge this season.
Tuesday night’s 2-2 draw against Bournemouth, a team without a league win since October, amplified the discontent. The home crowd voiced their frustration, notably booing manager Enzo Maresca’s decision to substitute Cole Palmer while chasing a winning goal.
Despite reports suggesting Maresca’s position isn’t immediately at risk, the situation is undeniably precarious. A swift turnaround in results is now essential, with a challenging schedule looming large on the horizon.
Sunday’s trip to Manchester City represents a monumental test, followed by a West London derby against Fulham next week. Further ahead, crucial clashes against Arsenal in the Carabao Cup and Napoli in the Champions League could define the manager’s future.
Speculation regarding potential replacements has already begun, with former Barcelona manager Xavi emerging as the early frontrunner. Bookmakers currently place him as the 6/1 favorite should the Chelsea job become available.
Xavi, recently departed from Barcelona after a three-year tenure that included a Spanish title, remains a highly sought-after figure in football management. His availability adds another layer of intrigue to the situation at Chelsea.
Other names in the conversation include Liam Rosenior, currently impressing at Strasbourg, and Oliver Glasner, whose contract at Crystal Palace expires at the end of the season, both priced at 8/1.
Fulham’s Marco Silva and Unai Emery are also being considered, alongside familiar faces like Frank Lampard, who could be in line for a third spell at the club. Even former Chelsea stalwart John Terry is being mentioned in whispers.
Interestingly, before the holiday season, Maresca himself was linked with a potential return to Manchester City, potentially succeeding Pep Guardiola. Having previously served as Guardiola’s assistant and Under-23 head coach, the connection was a natural talking point.
Maresca, however, firmly dismissed those rumors as “100% speculation,” emphasizing his commitment to Chelsea with a contract extending to 2029. He insisted his focus remains solely on the club and expressed pride in his position.
The coming weeks will be critical. The pressure is mounting, and the need for positive results has never been greater. The future of Chelsea’s manager hangs in the balance, dependent on performances on the pitch.
