EPL: "Chelsea in Search of a 'Puppet' Manager, Says Pat Nevin"

Pat Nevin, a former Chelsea player, expressed that he was not surprised to learn about Enzo Maresca's dismissal as the club's manager.

Maresca departed from Stamford Bridge on New Year’s Day, less than six months after leading Chelsea to victory in the Club World Cup.

The ex-Leicester City manager secured the Conference League title with Chelsea last season and finished in fourth place in the Premier League, which earned them a spot in the Champions League.

Under Maresca's leadership, Chelsea unexpectedly triumphed in the World Club Cup held in the United States.

The season began positively for Chelsea, but they encountered difficulties in December, earning only six points from their last six matches and falling 15 points behind league leaders Arsenal.

Maresca's relationship with the Chelsea management team at Stamford Bridge began to deteriorate.

In response to the news, Nevin noted that Chelsea frequently hires and fires managers without much consideration.

Nevin stated on BBC Radio 5 Live, “I am not shocked or even surprised because it’s the Chelsea way. How many managers attempt to influence their board? They dislike it.

“I believed his time was over after the comments regarding Everton. The signs were clear.

“Did he do a good enough job? I think it was about average. You can present it as a team of world champions with a European trophy and a young squad.

“However, one could also argue that £1.6 billion was spent on players. That would constitute a strong team.

“I do feel sympathy for Enzo Maresca. This downturn was anticipated at this stage of the season, especially since the team played extensively in the Club World Cup without much of a break.

When asked about potential successors to Maresca at Stamford Bridge, Nevin remarked: “Chelsea needs someone who genuinely believes in the strategy. In other words, they need a puppet.

“Someone who will strictly adhere to the directives of those in charge. If that’s the kind of person you want, you need to find one.

“They will likely recruit someone young and easy to manage. Chelsea is eager for success. They want to accumulate points to secure a place in the top four or five and qualify for the Champions League annually.

“But they desire something more. They are searching for someone who will comply with their instructions and execute exactly what they say. These two objectives may not align.

“Liam Rosenior appears to be a solid candidate, but he lacks experience at this level. This is the premier league and the most challenging league in the world. Even when facing weaker teams, mistakes can happen and lead to failure. Employing someone without that level of experience is a significant risk.”