Enzo Maresca first word to Chelsea fans after announcing him

 Chelsea Football Club is delighted to announce the appointment of Enzo Maresca as new head coach of the men’s team.

The Italian will begin his new role on 1 July 2024 on a five-year contract, with a club option of a further year.

Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley, Chelsea’s co-sporting directors, said: ‘We are delighted to welcome Enzo to Chelsea. He has proven himself to be an excellent coach capable of delivering impressive results with an exciting and identifiable style.

'Enzo has deeply impressed us in our discussions leading up to his appointment. His ambitions and work ethic align with those of the club. We thoroughly look forward to working with him.’

Chelsea’s ownership group said: ‘We are thrilled to welcome Enzo into the Chelsea family. We look forward to supporting him and the rest of the sporting team in fulfilling their potential and our expectations over the years to come.

'He is a highly gifted coach and leader that we are confident can help fulfill our vision and competitive goals for the Club.’

Maresca said: ‘To join Chelsea, one of the biggest clubs in the world, is a dream for any coach. It is why I am so excited by this opportunity.

'I look forward to working with a very talented group of players and staff to develop a team that continues the club’s tradition of success and makes our fans proud.”

After spells on the coaching staff of Ascoli, Sevilla and West Ham United, Enzo took charge of Manchester City's Elite Development Squad in August 2020 and guided them to the 2021 Premier League 2 title.

After a stint with Parma and another as assistant coach at Man City, Enzo was appointed head coach at Leicester City in June 2023. The 44-year-old guided the club to the EFL Championship title and promotion back to the Premier League in his first season in charge.

Enzo’s staff will include former Chelsea goalkeeper Willy Caballero, Danny Walker, Michele De Bernardin, Marcos Alvarez, Javi Molina and Roberto Vitiello. Ben Roberts will join the staff as goalkeeper coach and has been appointed to the role of head of global goalkeeping.

We are also delighted to confirm the appointment of Bernardo Cueva who will lead the set-piece department.

Welcome to Chelsea, Enzo