Fifth-place Chelsea will begin life after manager Enzo Maresca when the team visits third-place Manchester City in Sunday's late kickoff. Also Read Chelsea part ways with manager Enzo Maresca after poor run of formMaresca's dismissal became official on New Year's Day. Meanwhile, Maresca's departure has led to speculation that he could eventually be the replacement for City manager Pep Guardiola when the latter's contract expires following the 2026-27 season. With City (13-4-2, 41 points) four points behind league leader Arsenal, he playfully pushed back against speculation that Maresca could succeed the legendary Spanish coach. City had won eight in a row -- including seven in the league -- before being held to a 0-0 draw at Sunderland on Thursday.

Source: The Telegraph January 03, 2026 14:48 UTC