The King Power Stadium faithful could be in for a reunion that few predicted, as reports suggest Leicester City are making a bold play to bring Enzo Maresca back to the helm. Just a month after his surprising exit from Chelsea, the Italian tactician is reportedly on the Foxes' radar to rescue their faltering Championship campaign.
Key Takeaways from the Maresca Saga
- Enzo Maresca was controversially sacked by Chelsea on New Year's Day despite a successful first season.
- Leicester City currently sit 16th in the Championship table, recently parting ways with manager Marti Cifuentes.
- The Foxes are reportedly in contact with Maresca over a sensational return to the club he guided to promotion.
- During his initial spell, Maresca led Leicester to the Championship title and a dramatic return to the Premier League in 2024.
The Blues' Unceremonious Exit for Maresca
Enzo Maresca's tenure at Chelsea was a whirlwind of highs and a sudden, bitter low. Arriving on a long-term deal in 2024, he quickly steered the Blues to a fourth-placed finish in the Premier League, securing coveted Champions League qualification. His single full season at Stamford Bridge also saw silverware, as Chelsea lifted the Conference League and, remarkably, the Club World Cup after thrashing Champions League holders Paris Saint-Germain.
However, the dream turned sour. Cracks appeared in his relationship with the ownership, notably after a December victory over Everton when Maresca publicly stated he felt a lack of support. His infamous quote, "Worst 48 hours since I joined the club because people didn’t support me and the team," signaled deep-seated issues. Ultimately, a dismal run of just one win in seven Premier League matches led to his New Year's Day sacking, with Liam Rosenior quickly appointed as his successor.
Foxes in Freefall: A Crisis at King Power
Meanwhile, Leicester City finds itself in dire straits. The club, which Maresca once led to glory, is currently languishing in 16th place in the Championship. Their recent form has been alarming, capped by a disappointing 2-0 defeat to Charlton Athletic and the preceding 2-1 loss to Oxford United.
This poor run saw former boss Marti Cifuentes dismissed last week. Under Cifuentes, Leicester recorded an unsettling 11 losses in 29 league games. The ambition to return to the Premier League looks distant, with the Foxes now nine points adrift of the play-off positions. Despite their struggles, the club's reported pursuit of Maresca signals a clear intent to reignite their season and push for a top-six finish.
The Prodigal Son's Championship Triumph
The prospect of Maresca's return is particularly exciting for Leicester fans because of his undeniable track record at the club. Appointed in June 2023, following their relegation from the Premier League, Maresca orchestrated a stunning revival. His side embarked on an "awesome start," winning 13 of their opening 14 Championship fixtures and quickly establishing themselves as title favorites.
Despite a brief November wobble and a nerve-wracking late-season collapse, Leicester ultimately recovered their composure. They clinched the Championship title, finishing a point clear of runners-up Ipswich Town, and secured an immediate return to England's top flight. This past success forms the bedrock of hopes for a second coming.
Can Maresca Spark a Play-Off Push Amidst Injury Woes?
The challenge facing Maresca, should he return, would be immense. Leicester is currently without a win in four league games, battling significant injury concerns. Key players like Aaron Ramsey, Harry Souttar, Jannik Vestergaard, Jordan James, Oliver Skipp, and Victor Kristiansen are all sidelined.
Revitalizing a squad grappling with poor form and a lengthy injury list will test even a proven winner like Maresca. Can he inspire another dramatic turnaround and steer the Foxes towards an unexpected play-off charge? The football world watches with bated breath.
