Ange Postecoglou’s recent comments about Enzo Maresca suggest that the common view of Chelsea’s direction might be misguided, as Postecoglou often questions accepted beliefs.
Enzo Maresca’s tenure at Chelsea ended poorly after disputes with the club’s ownership. Key issues arose from disagreements with the medical team, which left Maresca feeling excluded from important decisions at Stamford Bridge.
The supporters were not entirely behind his departure. Maresca had secured two trophies for them—the FIFA Club World Cup and the UEFA Conference League—significant achievements given the club’s lack of success since 2022.
Despite these accomplishments, Maresca did not receive much support from the board. The club opted to move on and appointed Liam Rosenior as his successor.
Ange Postecoglou believes Enzo Maresca was dismissed too soon
Photo by Stuart Franklin/Getty Images
In a conversation with The Overlap, Ange Postecoglou shared his views on how winning managers are perceived in football.
The 60-year-old Australian mentioned: “I value managers who win trophies. That’s ultimately what we are judged on.
“Eddie won something last year, Oliver did too, Arnie won the league, and Enzo has his own trophies. I think people overlook the importance of winning actual trophies these days.
“While it’s great for clubs to be financially sound, you don’t celebrate financial health with parades; those are reserved for trophy wins.
“So when a manager clinches a trophy, it’s a significant achievement because it’s challenging.”
Enzo Maresca likely deserved more time at Chelsea
Maresca’s exit from Chelsea was not just a simple separation; it reflected a club prioritizing immediate harmony over long-term development. Even amid the circumstances of his departure, the Italian had created enough momentum to merit more patience than he received.
In his 18 months in charge, he managed to stabilize a team that had been struggling, leading them to trophy wins after a long dry spell.
Maresca’s efforts were recognized, as he instilled a clear and aggressive identity for the team. Manchester City also took note, considering him as a potential candidate for the future once Pep Guardiola moves on.