Premier League giants Chelsea have appointed Leicester City boss Enzo Maresca as their new manager on a five-year contract, succeeding the departed Mauricio Pochettino.
The 44-year-old Italian joined the Foxes in June 2023 and led them to win the Championship title last year.
"We are delighted to welcome Enzo to Chelsea," said Laurence Stewart and Paul Winstanley, Chelsea's co-sporting directors. "He has proven himself to be an excellent coach capable of delivering impressive results with an exciting and identifiable style.
"Enzo has deeply impressed us in our discussions leading up to his appointment. His ambitions and work ethic align with those of the club."
Maresca will start his new job on July 1. He has signed a five-year contract, which includes an option for an additional year.
"To join Chelsea, one of the biggest clubs in the world, is a dream for any coach," he said. "It is why I am so excited by this opportunity. I look forward to working with a very talented group of players and staff to develop a team that continues the club's tradition of success and makes our fans proud."
Pochettino parted ways with Chelsea by mutual consent last month following a turbulent season in which the club spent much of the campaign in mid-table.
The team rebounded to win their final five games, securing a spot in the Europa Conference League. They also reached the League Cup final and the FA Cup semi-finals.
Maresca will become the sixth manager to lead the first team since Todd Boehly's Clearlake Capital consortium acquired the club two years ago.
Since Clearlake took over from Roman Abramovich in May 2022, Chelsea have spent more than £1 billion ($1.3 billion) on signings.
(With AFP inputs)
