Enzo Maresca Rivals Jurgen Klopp for Surprise New Job Weeks After Chelsea Exit

Enzo Maresca, recently sacked by Chelsea on New Year's Day 2026, has emerged as the frontrunner for the Real Madrid managerial position, edging out legends like Jurgen Klopp and Zinedine Zidane in betting odds.[5]

During his 92-match tenure at Chelsea, the 45-year-old Italian secured 55 wins, including triumphs in the UEFA Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup in 2025. Despite these achievements, his dismissal stemmed from ongoing poor Premier League form—squandering 15 points from winning positions—and tensions with the board over limited influence and secret talks with Manchester City and Juventus.[1][2]

Chelsea swiftly appointed Liam Rosenior, currently at Strasbourg (a club under the same ownership), as Maresca's replacement. Rosenior's first match resulted in a 5-1 victory over Charlton Athletic, aligning with Chelsea's strategy of continuity within their existing project rather than chasing high-profile names like Klopp or Zidane.[1][2][3]

Meanwhile, Maresca's odds for Real Madrid plunged to 1/1, ahead of Klopp (4/1) and Zidane (6/1), following Carlo Ancelotti's exit. Ancelotti, who once managed both Chelsea and Real Madrid, had advised Maresca during pre-season.[5] Speculation links Maresca's tactical acumen—honed under Pep Guardiola—to a potential Bernabeu role.[5]

Elsewhere, Klopp, out of management since leaving Liverpool post-2024/25, was dubbed a "dream" Chelsea pick by ex-Blues star Joe Cole, despite rivalry concerns. However, Chelsea ruled out "star names," and reports even place Klopp at RB Leipzig as sporting director.[3][4]

Maresca sought backing akin to Klopp's at Liverpool or Arteta's at Arsenal but clashed with Chelsea's hierarchy constraints.[1] His rapid job market surge underscores football's volatility, positioning him to rival Klopp for a shock Real Madrid gig.

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