Xavi Has Already Hinted at Chelsea Move Amid Enzo Maresca Sack Bombshell

By Football Insider | Published recently amid Chelsea's managerial crisis

Enzo Maresca's tenure at Chelsea has ended abruptly, with the Italian manager parting ways with the club following escalating tensions behind the scenes. According to reports from Fabrizio Romano, Maresca and Chelsea officials mutually agreed to terminate his contract after just months in charge, amid poor results and internal disagreements over tactics and squad management[2]. This sacking has sparked a frantic search for a replacement, with several high-profile names emerging as frontrunners.

Among the top candidates is former Barcelona boss Xavi Hernández, who has reportedly already dropped subtle hints about his interest in the Stamford Bridge job. Sources close to the Spaniard reveal that during recent interviews, Xavi praised Chelsea's ambitious project under Todd Boehly, emphasizing the club's young, talented squad and financial muscle as ideal for his possession-based philosophy. "A club like Chelsea, with such potential and hunger for success, is always intriguing," Xavi is quoted as saying in a Spanish media outlet, fueling speculation[1].

Xavi tops several ranking lists of potential replacements. Football365 ranks him among the five favourites, alongside Cesc Fàbregas, while FotMob lists six potential options: Oliver Glasner, Liam Rosenior, Cesc Fàbregas, Andoni Iraola, Roberto De Zerbi, and Xavi himself[1][2]. The 45-year-old's experience winning La Liga with Barcelona in 2022-23, combined with his tactical acumen and Premier League familiarity from his playing days at the club, make him a compelling fit.

Chelsea's hierarchy is moving swiftly, with interim options like Glasner (Crystal Palace) or Iraola (Bournemouth) considered stopgaps. However, Xavi's availability since leaving Barca in 2024 positions him perfectly. Insiders hint at advanced talks, potentially sealing a shock move that could revive Chelsea's top-four ambitions. The football world watches as the Blues aim to steady the ship.

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