The Italian was linked with a move to the Etihad Stadium to replace his former master, but the City boss has dismissed speculation as he bids to real in Arsenal in a gripping Premier League title race

Enzo Maresca’s abrupt departure from Stamford Bridge remains a major talking point across the English football landscape.

Enzo Maresca has left his position as Chelsea head coach with immediate effect as club and manager concluded that their increasingly embittered relationship could not continue.

Chelsea are reportedly 'intensifying' their efforts to recruit Strasbourg boss Liam Rosenior following the sacking of Enzo Maresca. The Italian head coach was dismissed after 18 months in charge following a fraying of relations with the club's owners,

Enzo Maresca, who has been relieved of his duties at Stamford Bridge, revealed to Chelsea on a couple of occasions prior to his New Year's Day dismissal that he has held talks with officials at Manchester City regarding a potential opportunity to succeed Pep Guardiola at the Etihad Stadium.

A number of Chelsea players took to social media to bid farewell to Enzo Maresca following his shock departure on Thursday.

Enzo Maresca left his role as Chelsea manager on New Year's Day with the club sitting fifth in the Premier League. The Italian, 45, departed less than six months after winning the FIFA Club World Cup at the end of his first season in charge but the Blues will look to act swiftly to appoint his successor.

"Chelsea Football Club and head coach Enzo Maresca have parted company. "During his time at the Club, Enzo led the team to success in the Uefa Conference League and the Fifa Club World Cup. Those achievements will remain an important part of the club's recent history, and we thank him for his contributions to the club.