Chelsea winger Pedro Neto has spoken publicly about the reaction inside the dressing room following the unexpected departure of head coach Enzo Maresca from Stamford Bridge, offering rare insight into how players processed the sudden change at the start of 2026.
Maresca officially left Chelsea on New Year’s Day, bringing an end to a spell that delivered tangible success, including the 2024/2025 UEFA Conference League title and the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup. Despite those achievements, his exit came amid growing tension behind the scenes and a noticeable dip in domestic form.
The announcement triggered widespread debate among supporters and pundits alike, with questions raised over timing, internal dynamics, and the long-term direction of the club.
A Sudden End After a Promising Start
Chelsea’s early-season optimism gradually faded in December, when the team managed just one Premier League victory across the month. While results in Europe remained solid, league inconsistency placed pressure on both players and coaching staff.
Reports suggested the relationship between Maresca and the club’s hierarchy had become increasingly strained, despite a productive summer in which Chelsea appeared aligned with the Italian coach’s vision.
According to Give Me Sport senior correspondent Ben Jacobs, several confrontations occurred over squad selection and in-game substitutions. These internal disagreements reportedly intensified as results worsened, eventually contributing to the decision to part ways.
Manchester City Links Add to the Turmoil
Maresca’s situation was further complicated by persistent speculation linking him with Manchester City, where he was rumored to be a potential successor to Pep Guardiola.
While no official approach was confirmed, the noise surrounding City’s interest added another layer of uncertainty to Chelsea’s internal environment, particularly as Maresca has long been known as an admirer of Guardiola’s coaching philosophy.
By the time Chelsea confirmed his departure, many observers believed the decision had been brewing for weeks—yet the timing still caught players off guard.
Pedro Neto: “We Were a Bit Shocked”
Despite the growing speculation, the announcement still came as a surprise to much of the squad. Several players paid tribute to Maresca on social media, acknowledging his influence and leadership.
Pedro Neto was among them, writing:
“Thank you for everything you and your staff have done. For all the memories, achievements, and trust. Wishing you nothing but the best.”
Speaking later to Sky Sports, Neto expanded on the emotional response inside the dressing room when the news broke.
“After the game against Bournemouth, of course we wanted to win,” Neto said. “At first, I think we were a bit… shocked. Honestly, I was surprised because the coach had done an incredible job for us.”
Respect for a Coach Who Delivered Success
Neto highlighted Maresca’s achievements and the positive trajectory he felt the team was on before the departure.
“Last season was great under him, and this season was also going well,” the Portuguese winger explained. “Of course, we always want to improve. We always want more. But that’s football.”
On a personal level, Neto admitted the separation was difficult.
“I was a bit sad because he helped me a lot. He guided me, and I learned so much from him—not just as a player, but as a person,” he said. “He was exceptional with me.”
Despite the disappointment, Neto emphasized the professional reality players must accept.
“This is football. We have to move on and focus on the next match as a team, trying to win.”
Mixed Emotions Within the Dressing Room
While Neto’s comments reflected surprise and gratitude, The Athletic reported that reactions across the squad were far from uniform.
Some players reportedly viewed Maresca as a stabilizing figure who allowed Chelsea to compete consistently against elite opponents. Those players expressed concern that his departure could slow the club’s progress and disrupt dressing-room balance.
There was also apprehension that losing a coach with a clear tactical identity might impact Chelsea’s ability to challenge for major trophies in the short term.
Frustration Over Rotation and Selection
However, other voices within the squad held a different perspective. Sources close to the team indicated that several players struggled to earn Maresca’s trust and secure regular starting roles.
Constant rotation, while intended to manage workload and competition, reportedly left some players frustrated. The lack of consistent minutes made it difficult for them to find rhythm, build chemistry, and deliver peak performances.
These concerns contributed to a growing sense of division, even as Chelsea continued to collect silverware under Maresca.
Guardiola Comparisons and Internal Debate
One particularly sensitive issue involved perceptions of Maresca’s leadership style following the Club World Cup triumph in 2025.
A source close to senior players suggested that Maresca attempted to emulate Pep Guardiola more visibly in his interactions with the club hierarchy, possibly seeking greater influence over long-term sporting decisions.
That interpretation, however, has been firmly denied by individuals close to Maresca, who insist the Italian coach always respected Chelsea’s existing structure and governance model.
Chelsea Move Forward Amid Uncertainty
As Chelsea begin a new chapter without Maresca, the club faces a familiar challenge: restoring stability while maintaining competitiveness at the highest level.
For players like Pedro Neto, the focus remains on professionalism and performance, regardless of changes off the pitch.
While opinions within the squad may differ, one thing is clear—Enzo Maresca leaves behind a complex legacy, defined by trophies, tactical evolution, and a dressing room that continues to process his sudden exit.
The coming weeks will reveal whether Chelsea can channel that transition into renewed momentum—or whether the shockwaves of change will linger longer than expected.
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