Chelsea’s managerial upheaval has sparked intense debate following the club’s decision to part ways with Enzo Maresca on New Year’s Day, and one familiar name is now being floated as a surprise successor.
Former Blues captain John Terry has been backed by broadcaster Richard Keys to take over at Stamford Bridge, a move that would mark Terry’s first senior managerial role in professional football.
Enzo Maresca exit triggers search for new direction
Chelsea’s decision to sack Maresca came after a sharp downturn in league form. The Blues had been just three points off the top of the Premier League table a month earlier but now find themselves 15 points adrift.
Despite remaining alive in the League Cup, FA Cup, and Champions League, the club hierarchy opted for change, signalling dissatisfaction with the team’s trajectory and internal dynamics.
The sudden nature of Enzo Maresca’s dismissal has added to the intrigue surrounding Chelsea’s next move, with speculation mounting over whether the club will pursue an experienced name or take a more emotional route by turning to a club legend.
Richard Keys backs Terry for top job
Richard Keys has publicly urged Chelsea to consider John Terry, arguing that his deep-rooted connection with the club outweighs his lack of managerial experience. Writing on X, Keys stated:
“If I’m a Chelsea fan I want to see JT given a go. He’s a Chelsea man to the core - has served time elsewhere & there’s no reason he can’t do what Lampard is doing at Coventry - with better tools.”
Terry, who enjoyed a trophy-laden playing career at Chelsea, last worked within the club as an academy coach in 2023.
He has not held a senior coaching position since, but Keys believes the former defender’s leadership qualities and understanding of the club’s culture make him a viable candidate.
Club position and Terry’s reaction
Despite the growing chatter, a report from Football.London suggests Chelsea do not currently intend to appoint Terry as Maresca’s replacement.
The former captain himself admitted surprise at the manager’s departure and distanced himself from any inside knowledge.
Speaking on TikTok, John Terry said:
“Enzo Maresca has just been sacked by Chelsea and to be honest I’m completely shocked, I didn’t see it coming. I know things of late haven’t been how he would like. You can see and hear that there’s been tension.
“I’ve had so many phone calls this morning after the news and everyone expects me to know what’s happening. I haven’t got a clue what’s happening, I’m not involved in the first team so I don’t know.
“Just my opinion from afar, there’s clearly been tension between the manager and the owner and they’ve come to this decision.”
As Chelsea weigh their next steps, Terry’s name continues to resonate among supporters, even as the club appears set on exploring alternative options.