Frank Lampard has called for Chelsea’s ownership to exercise patience with newly appointed manager Enzo Maresca, allowing him time to build on the positive foundation laid by former boss Mauricio Pochettino. Lampard emphasized the importance of stability as the club transitions under Maresca’s leadership, following Pochettino’s unexpected departure from Stamford Bridge at the end of the season.
Chelsea’s recent hiring of Leicester City’s Championship-winning manager Maresca on a five-year deal comes after a season of ups and downs. The Blues struggled in mid-table for much of the 2023-24 campaign but managed a strong finish, winning their last five games to secure a sixth-place finish in the Premier League and a spot in European competition. Despite this late surge, Pochettino agreed to leave the club after discussions with Chelsea’s hierarchy.
Reflecting on Maresca’s appointment, Lampard highlighted the need for the new manager to be given adequate time to assess and potentially reshape the squad. “It was good to see a positive end to the season,” Lampard told talkSPORT. “I was there at the back-end of the previous season and knew it was going to be a tough build. There’s still a gap to the top clubs, so patience is crucial to allow the new manager to do his work.”
Lampard, widely regarded as Chelsea’s greatest ever player, has been without a managerial role since his second stint at Chelsea ended last year. His endorsement of Maresca underscores his belief in the potential for Chelsea to bridge the gap to the top clubs, provided the new manager is given the necessary time and support to implement his vision.