Chelsea board undecided on Maresca future

Chelsea welcome Everton to Stamford Bridge on Saturday knowing that they will likely need to pick up all three points to keep alive their hopes of a top-five finish in the Premier League. 

At present the Blues sit sixth in the standings, with only the top five qualifying for next term’s Champions League.

Enzo Maresca’s side had started the season strongly and sat second in the table on Christmas Day, but their form since the turn of the year has dipped dramatically.

Last time out they relied on late goals from Tyrique George and Pedro Neto to produce a comeback victory against West London rivals Fulham, but Maresca’s side face a tough run-in which includes games against Liverpool, Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest.

Away from the action, CaughtOffside those in charge of the London side are undecided about the future of head coach Maresca.

The Italian took charge of Chelsea last summer following the departure of Mauricio Pochettino, having himself guided Leicester City to the Championship title and, in doing so, a return to the top flight.

Maresca is under pressure at Chelsea

Whilst the Blues started the season relatively strongly, their Premier League form this calendar year has been poor and Maresca’s side now face a battle to ensure they qualify for next season’s Champions League.

The report claims that there are divisions between board members when it comes to their views on Maresca, who could still win a trophy in his first season at the club if they lift the Europa Conference League.

It is suggested that, despite that possibility, the ex-Leicester boss could still be sacked this summer with certain members of the club’s hierarchy holding reservations about his style of play.

Sections of the club’s supporters have voiced their concerns about the style of play and results during particular matches in recent months.

Maresca signed a five-year-deal when taking charge at Stamford Bridge last summer, but the report suggests that he could depart SW6 this summer.