Enzo Maresca has apologised to Chelsea for the manner of his departure and agreed to pay compensation, after being confirmed as Manchester City’s new head coach on a three-year deal.
“The decision was only mine,” Maresca wrote on Instagram. “I recognise that my departure from Chelsea in the middle of the season caused disruption for the club and I apologise for that. It was neither my intention nor my wish.”
“Enzo Maresca apologises and agrees compensation with Chelsea after leaving mid-season to become Manchester City manager.”
The Italian, 46, succeeds Pep Guardiola, who stepped down in May after 10 trophy-laden years. Maresca spent the 2022-23 season as Guardiola’s assistant during City’s Treble-winning campaign.
Chelsea said they have reached a confidential agreement with Maresca over compensation due to the club. BBC Sport understands Manchester City are paying Chelsea about £17m for the manager, though that package is separate from Maresca’s personal settlement.
The appointment was held up by talks between the clubs. Maresca left Chelsea in January after a run of one win in seven Premier League matches. At the time, Chelsea’s statement suggested the decision was mutual, but Maresca has now admitted he handed in his resignation, which “opened a path” for him to join City.
Chelsea described Maresca’s resignation as a “decision not to continue fulfilling his responsibilities”. His exit contributed to a chaotic campaign in which Chelsea finished 10th, sacked another manager and lost millions in television revenue. It also triggered a prolonged legal dispute, only recently resolved, allowing all parties to draw a line under the matter.
Maresca’s first season at Chelsea will still be remembered as their most successful under owners Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, having qualified for the Champions League for the only time in four years.