CHELSEA TARGET LEICESTER BOSS ENZO MARESCA AS POCHETTINO’S SUCCESSOR
Chelsea are wasting no time in their search for a new manager after Mauricio Pochettino’s departure. The Blues have identified Leicester manager Enzo Maresca as a potential candidate and will seek permission to speak to him. Despite a challenging start to the season, Pochettino managed to secure European football for Chelsea with a sixth-placed finish. However, the club’s hierarchy is determined to find a suitable replacement and have already drawn up a shortlist of potential candidates.
CHELSEA NARROW DOWN SHORTLIST TO TWO
Chelsea initially had an eight-man shortlist, which has now been reduced to just two names. Ipswich head coach Kieran McKenna is currently the frontrunner for the job, with the club confident of securing his services. However, Manchester United are also interested in McKenna, prompting Chelsea to consider other options. Enzo Maresca, who is admired by Chelsea’s recruitment team, has emerged as a strong contender. Chelsea will approach Leicester for permission to speak to the 44-year-old Italian.
FINANCIAL CONSIDERATIONS IN THE HUNT FOR A NEW MANAGER
Leicester’s potential points deduction in the Premier League could play a role in Maresca’s decision-making process. Chelsea are aware of this and are prepared to negotiate with the Foxes to secure Maresca’s services. The Italian manager has a release clause of around £8.5million, while McKenna’s release clause is significantly lower at £4m. Chelsea aims to finalize the appointment of Pochettino’s successor by the end of next week.
Ipswich Manager, McKenna, Addresses Speculation Surrounding Chelsea and Manchester United Links
In a recent interview with Sky Sports, LMA Manager of the Year, McKenna, addressed the ongoing speculation linking him to Chelsea and Manchester United. Despite the rumors, McKenna remains focused on Ipswich’s successful season and the positive future that lies ahead for the club.
Having achieved back-to-back promotions with Ipswich, McKenna acknowledged that speculation is inevitable when a club experiences such success. However, he emphasized that his main priority is the upcoming season and the progress Ipswich has made.
When asked about the potential offers from Chelsea, Brighton, or United, McKenna acknowledged that speculation is a natural part of the game. He recognized that the achievements of Ipswich are not ordinary and therefore attract attention. Nevertheless, he made it clear that his focus is on celebrating the accomplishments of the past couple of seasons and preparing for the promising future of the club.
As the frontrunner for the managerial position at Chelsea and Manchester United, McKenna’s comments shed light on his dedication to Ipswich and his determination to lead the club to further success in the upcoming season. With a positive outlook and a strong team behind him, McKenna is confident that Ipswich will continue to thrive.
