Chelsea FC are reportedly preparing to file a legal complaint over Manchester City FC’s move for former head coach Enzo Maresca unless compensation is agreed between both clubs.
Reports claim Chelsea officials were left furious after allegations emerged that Maresca held discussions with Manchester City while he was still employed at Stamford Bridge.
With the Italian now expected to replace Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, Chelsea are reportedly considering taking the matter to the Premier League if both clubs fail to reach an agreement over compensation.
Chelsea co-owner Behdad Eghbali addressed the situation during a sports congress, insisting the managerial change was not something the club wanted.
“The change wasn’t the club’s decision, for reasons I can’t speak about legally. I think the reasons will become kind of clear in due course. But no, it’s not a change we wanted to make.”
He also admitted that the instability had negatively affected Chelsea’s performances on the pitch.
“It’s a change that’s had a bit of a negative impact on the season, when you’re changing systems and personnel,” Eghbali added. “And it’s one we’ve got to fight our way out of.”
Maresca’s departure reportedly came as a shock internally, with reports suggesting his relationship with Chelsea executives deteriorated in December and eventually turned into a tense disagreement.
The situation allegedly worsened after Maresca claimed he experienced his “worst 48 hours” at Stamford Bridge following criticism and lack of support after Chelsea’s Champions League defeat to Atalanta BC.
The Italian manager was also reportedly accused of ignoring recommendations from Chelsea’s medical department regarding player management before news broke that he was in talks with Manchester City and Juventus FC.
However, sources close to Maresca reportedly maintained that Chelsea had been informed about his discussions with other clubs.