Manchester City’s newly appointed head coach, Enzo Maresca, has apologised for the manner of his mid-season departure from Chelsea, saying it was never his intention to leave the club under those circumstances.
In a post on his Instagram account, Maresca responded after Chelsea criticised his exit shortly after Manchester City confirmed him as Pep Guardiola’s successor. The London club also indicated it was seeking compensation over his departure.
Maresca said the decision to leave Chelsea in December 2025 was his alone, acknowledging that it disrupted the club’s season despite paving the way for his return to Manchester City.
“It was not my intention nor my wish,” he wrote, expressing regret over the timing of his exit.
The Italian coach also thanked Chelsea for the opportunity to manage the club, saying he appreciated the support he received from the club and its fans during his time in charge.
His statement comes amid ongoing scrutiny of his move to Manchester City and Chelsea’s public criticism of the circumstances surrounding his departure.
