Chelsea are preparing to launch a legal complaint against Manchester City over their reported interest in former manager Enzo Maresca, in a developing dispute that could escalate into an official Premier League investigation.
The controversy centres around claims that Manchester City have moved to appoint Maresca as their next manager following Pep Guardiola’s expected departure, a decision that has triggered concern at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea believe that discussions between Maresca and City may have taken place while the Italian was still under contract at the club, raising questions over possible breaches of employment and recruitment regulations.
According to reports, the London club are weighing up a formal complaint and could demand compensation if City proceed with the appointment.
Maresca left Chelsea earlier in the year after a turbulent spell in charge, but his possible return to the Premier League with City has now created tension between both clubs.
City, meanwhile, are believed to be preparing for a managerial transition as Guardiola edges closer to the end of his long tenure at the Etihad Stadium.
The situation adds another layer of complexity to one of the most closely watched managerial succession stories in English football.
If Chelsea proceed with their complaint, the matter is expected to be reviewed under Premier League regulatory processes, potentially leading to arbitration between both clubs.
