'I'd love to' – Xavi's comment speaks volumes as Chelsea search for Enzo Maresca replacement

Xavi already detailed his stance on managing in the Premier League long before Enzo Maresca's sacking at Chelsea

Xavi has previously expressed his eagerness to manage in the Premier League as Enzo Maresca's tenure at Chelsea has reached its conclusion.

The Italian manager departed the Premier League club on New Year's Day after less than two seasons in charge. With just one victory from their previous seven matches, frustration has been mounting at Stamford Bridge for several weeks, culminating in supporters voicing their displeasure after the 2-2 stalemate with Bournemouth on Tuesday.

Following Chelsea's 2-0 triumph over Everton last month, the 45-year-old seemed to suggest all was not well in west London. He said: "Since I joined the club, the last 48 hours have been the worst 48 hours since I joined the club because many people didn't support us."

When pressed to elaborate on his remarks, Maresca reiterated: "Worst 48 hours since I joined the club because people didn't support me and the team." With the Blues now searching for fresh leadership, one available candidate is Barcelona legend Xavi.

Having remained without a position since departing the Camp Nou in May 2024, the celebrated midfielder acknowledged that a Premier League opportunity would be irresistible. "Of course? Where, I don't know," the Spaniard told The Athletic when questioned about his managerial comeback earlier this year.

"There's no hurry for me, but I'd like a good project. Like, 'You have four years to work and make a project. I'd love to work in the Premier League because I love the passion there. In Spain, it's too much about the result.

"Or a national team, that would appeal. When I dreamed about being a coach, I dreamed about being in a World Cup or European Championship." It remains uncertain whether a new head coach will be appointed in time for Chelsea's encounter with Manchester City on Sunday.

Whilst Xavi is presently without a club and amongst the leading five contenders to succeed Maresca, it seems Liam Rosenior is the leading candidate for the position. Rosenior currently manages Strasbourg, who are under the ownership of Chelsea's parent company, and is now viewed as the most probable replacement.

The statement confirming Maresca's exit stated: "Chelsea Football Club and Head Coach Enzo Maresca have parted company. During his time at the Club, Enzo led the team to success in the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup.

"Those achievements will remain an important part of the Club's recent history, and we thank him for his contributions to the Club. With key objectives still to play for across four competitions including qualification for Champions League football, Enzo and the Club believe a change gives the team the best chance of getting the season back on track. We wish Enzo well for the future."

The new manager at Stamford Bridge will inherit a team that is still competing on all four fronts, but one that requires a boost to reinvigorate a season that has faltered of late.