Three Enzo Maresca alternatives Chelsea should consider now

Enzo Maresca

Enzo Maresca’s tenure at Chelsea has shown occasional flashes of promise, but overall, the club’s current standing raises significant concerns.

Positioned ninth in the Premier League and eleventh in the Champions League, the Blues face mounting doubts about their long-term trajectory.

Can Maresca’s strategic vision elevate Chelsea into consistent top-four contenders? More critically, can he restore the club’s trophy-winning tradition at Stamford Bridge?

At present, Chelsea’s board remains hesitant to dismiss Maresca outright. However, patience is wearing thin, and poor results could swiftly alter the club’s direction.

Under current ownership, the hierarchy has demonstrated a tendency for rapid resets initial grand ambitions often followed by swift changes. The question now is whether the club opts for evolution or an outright revolution.

Insiders reveal that club decision-makers are already exploring backup options should Maresca’s project falter.

The January 2026 transfer window has been mentioned as a possible timeline for changes, with several high-profile names emerging as potential candidates: Andoni Iraola, Marco Silva, and Xavi Hernández. Each offers a distinct approach to steering Chelsea back on course.

The core dilemma facing Chelsea is clear: Do they pursue gradual evolution, building steadily with a coach aligned to their current vision, or embrace a radical overhaul to make a bold statement? The choice will shape the club’s future identity.

Among Spain’s emerging coaching talents, Andoni Iraola stands out for his intelligent, high-pressing style. A former Athletic Bilbao right-back, Iraola gained recognition at Rayo Vallecano, where his teams excelled in aggressive pressing, quick transitions, and disciplined defending.

His tactical approach often saw his teams outperform expectations by maintaining compactness and executing rapid counterattacks.

Since taking charge at Bournemouth in June 2023, Iraola has adapted remarkably well to the Premier League. Despite a challenging start, he led Bournemouth to their highest-ever points tally in the top flight and secured a contract extension until 2026.

His football philosophy focused on relentless pressing, attacking full-backs, and fluid, swift combinations aligns well with Chelsea’s youthful, athletic squad.

Players like Cole Palmer and Mykhailo Mudryk could flourish under Iraola’s style, which emphasizes spatial control, intentionality, and attacking intent. However, questions about his experience managing at the highest level remain.

While his rise is impressive, managing the pressures of Chelsea’s expectations presents a new challenge. Still, his tactical acumen and potential for development make him a compelling long-term option.

For Chelsea seeking a seasoned, proven tactician, Marco Silva emerges as a prime candidate. The Portuguese manager has transformed Fulham into a disciplined yet dynamic team with a clear identity.

His sides are known for their organizational discipline, adaptable tactics, and ability to switch gears seamlessly whether patiently building attacks or executing quick transitions.

Silva’s extensive experience in the Premier League having managed Hull City, Watford, Everton, and Fulham equips him with a deep understanding of the league’s demands, media landscape, and intense pace.

His reputation as a clear communicator and effective man-manager is well-regarded; players appreciate his level-headed approach and tactical clarity.

While Silva may lack the star power of some other candidates, his track record of consistent, organized performances offers Chelsea a stable alternative amid years of upheaval. His pragmatic style could serve as a foundation for rebuilding stability and competitive consistency.

For a transformative overhaul, Xavi Hernández stands as a game-changing option. The legendary former Barcelona midfielder has crafted a coaching philosophy rooted in possession-based football, precision passing, and tactical intelligence mirroring his successful playing style.

Xavi’s approach emphasizes total control of the game, technical excellence, and the development of young talent.

His teams aim to dominate possession, dictate play, and execute structured attacks traits that align with Chelsea’s vision of modern, attractive football.

Currently a free agent, Xavi has expressed a desire to coach in the Premier League and is open to a radical reset at Chelsea. If appointed, he would bring a distinct style sharp, possession-oriented, and youth-focused that could redefine the club’s playing identity.

Such a move would signal a bold departure from traditional English coaching norms, representing a philosophical leap forward.

If Chelsea’s leadership remains committed to their current developmental model focusing on youth, long-term planning, and modern football then options like Iraola or Silva offer steady, logical choices.

They provide tactical stability and experience, fostering growth without dramatic upheaval.

Conversely, if the club seeks a complete reset and aims to make a bold statement of intent, appointing Xavi Hernández would be a radical and ambitious move. His philosophy promises a fresh start rooted in possession football, youth development, and strategic dominance potentially transforming Chelsea into a team built for the future.

The decision now hinges on Chelsea’s vision: evolve gradually or embrace revolutionary change. Whichever path they choose, the coming months will be pivotal in shaping the club’s trajectory.