Enzo Maresca's tenure at Chelsea has come to an abrupt end, lasting less than a year, as he moves to Manchester City. The Italian manager seemingly forgot a crucial rule at Stamford Bridge: the manager is not the ultimate decision-maker. Chelsea's patience with Maresca reportedly wore thin on New Year's Eve, as they recognized his attempts to leave the club and decided to call his bluff.

Maresca's departure is not entirely unexpected, as signs of strain emerged following a win over Everton last month. His cryptic comments about experiencing his "worst 48 hours" at the club hinted at underlying issues. Chelsea reportedly disliked the resulting volatility, and sources indicated that his position would become untenable if his behavior persisted.

The decision to part ways with Maresca was not solely based on recent events. It stemmed from a culmination of factors, including disagreements over transfers and Maresca's perceived lack of respect for the club's structure. Despite being a talented coach, Maresca's relative inexperience in management became apparent through his actions.

Chelsea's ownership has a clear vision for the club, and they expect the manager to align with it. This includes adhering to a specific style of play, developing young players, and working within the established recruitment structure. Maresca's desire for greater control over transfers and team selection clashed with this vision.

The situation was further complicated by Chelsea's inconsistent form under Maresca. Despite occasional flashes of brilliance, the team struggled for consistency, leading to frustration among fans. The 2-2 draw against Bournemouth was the final straw for many, with fans jeering Maresca and expressing their discontent with his tactics.

Maresca's actions following the Bournemouth game further fueled speculation about his impending departure. His decision to skip the post-match press conference, citing illness, was met with skepticism, especially given his immediate availability for talks with Manchester City.

Chelsea's swift action in dismissing Maresca underscores their commitment to maintaining a clear hierarchy and protecting the club's long-term interests. While Maresca's tactical acumen is undeniable, his inability to adapt to Chelsea's structure ultimately led to his downfall. As Chelsea begins their search for a new manager, they will undoubtedly prioritize candidates who are not only talented but also willing to embrace the club's philosophy and work collaboratively with the existing leadership.