Cucurella Breaks Silence After Maresca's Exit
1 January 2026
Context and Reactions
Cucurella's first reaction after Maresca's departure.
Chelsea's left-back Mark Cucurella was the first player to break his silence after the official announcement of Enzo Maresca's departure on Thursday.
Chelsea issued an official statement today confirming Maresca's departure, noting he had secured two trophies for the club: the UEFA Europa Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup.
Cucurella posted a heartfelt farewell on Instagram, thanking Maresca and his staff. He thanked them for the hard work and the trust shown from day one, and for all the wonderful memories. He wished Maresca every success in his next step and said goodbye, captain.
Chelsea said the decision came as the team still pursues important goals this season across multiple competitions, including a run at the Champions League.
The club said both sides agreed the change at this stage could give the team the best chance to get the season back on track.
And for good measure, some light humor: if football were a stand up show, Maresca's exit would be the closing joke; Chelsea's plan is still buffering, updates coming soon.
