Chelsea Defender Marc Cucurella Criticises Club’s Decision to Sack Enzo Maresca

Chelsea left-back Marc Cucurella has openly questioned the club’s decision to part company with former head coach Enzo Maresca, stating that players “would die for him” and that the change came too early.

In a frank interview, the Spain international expressed strong loyalty to Maresca, who guided Chelsea to UEFA Europa Conference League and Club World Cup success during his 18-month tenure before leaving the club in January 2026.

“When a manager gives you that confidence and offers you a platform to fight for titles, you’d die for him,” Cucurella said. “The moment Maresca left, it had a big impact on us. These are decisions taken by the club. If you asked me, I would not have made this decision.”

Cucurella added that such a mid-season change disrupts stability and suggested waiting until the end of the season would have been better for players and any incoming manager.

Maresca’s departure followed a reported breakdown in relations with the club’s hierarchy amid a challenging Premier League run, despite earlier trophy successes.

Cucurella’s comments reflect the sense of loss felt by some players after the Italian coach’s exit.