As per reports, Chelsea are monitoring ex-Ajax boss Francesco Farioli as a Plan B for Enzo Maresca in the event that the club fail to qualify for the Champions League. There could be some pressure on Maresca, as the Blues could miss out on qualification on the last day of the Premier League season.
Tottenham Hotspur are said to be interested in Farioli, as Ange Postecoglou is under some pressure. They have nearly finished their Premier League campaign in 17th, a worst-ever position, with 21 defeats.However, Spurs have qualified for the final of the Europa League, and Postecoglou could retain his position at the helm if they win.
Meanwhile, Enzo Maresca’s position is also secure at Chelsea, it is believed. The Stamford Bridge hierarchy will reportedly keep him regardless of the team’s ultimate league position of the team.
The outcome of next week’s Europa Conference League final against Real Betis is also not expected to dent his future at the club. However, new reports have insisted that the club’s failure to qualify for the Champions League might compel them to rethink their manager.
Farioli’s presence has also increased these rumors. The ex-Ajax manager is seen as a viable candidate to be considered if the Blues opt to replace their manager. The Blues’ performances towards the conclusion of the season will likely be considered while making a decision regarding Maresca.
Why Farioli is available for Chelsea
Farioli has recently left Ajax, following a dramatic collapse of their Eredivisie title hopes. The team squandered a nine-point advantage with five matches to go, losing the championship on a single point to PSV Eindhoven. The Italian manager departed after he released this statement:
“The management and I have the same goals for the future of Ajax, but we have different visions and timeframes on how we should work and operate to achieve them.
“Given these differences in the principles and foundations of the project, I feel deep in my heart that this is the best time for us to separate.”
Farioli has been highly thought of by many of Europe’s major clubs as a managerial target, including Tottenham Hotspur and AS Roma.