Enzo Maresca (foto: Getty Images)
Chelsea could launch legal action against Manchester City over Enzo Maresca’s expected appointment if compensation is not agreed.
Chelsea are considering legal action against Manchester City over the expected appointment of former head coach Enzo Maresca, according to reports in England.
The Italian coach has emerged as the leading candidate to replace Pep Guardiola, whose future at City continues to attract attention. However, Maresca’s potential arrival has reopened tensions between the two clubs.
Reports claim Chelsea officials are unhappy over allegations that Maresca held discussions with City while still connected to the London club.
If compensation terms cannot be agreed, Chelsea are reportedly prepared to escalate the matter and submit a formal complaint through the Premier League, which would then review the circumstances surrounding the move.
Chelsea co-owner Behdad Eghbali recently suggested there were legal limitations around discussing the coaching change in detail.
“The change wasn't the club's decision, for reasons I can't speak about legally.”
He also admitted that instability around the managerial situation affected performances during the campaign.
“It's a change that's had a bit of a negative impact on the season, when you're changing systems and personnel.”
Maresca’s departure earlier in the season came as a surprise and was followed by reports of growing disagreements behind the scenes.
According to reports, frustrations developed over sporting decisions, communication, and internal management issues during the campaign.
Maresca’s representatives reportedly maintained at the time that Chelsea had been informed about conversations with other clubs.
Manchester City now appear determined to move quickly as they prepare for life after Guardiola.
If an agreement between the clubs cannot be reached, the issue could develop into one of the biggest off-field disputes of the summer.