Chelsea narrow manager search to Enzo Maresca & Thomas Frank, McKenna ruled out

Chelsea are close to appointing a new head coach, but it will not be Ipswich Town boss Kieran McKenna. According to The Athletic, he has been ruled out of contention. 

The Blues are focusing on two remaining candidates – Leicester City’s Enzo Maresca and Brentford’s Thomas Frank. Although, it is worth noting that they may have additional names on their shortlist.

Former Brighton & Hove Albion boss Roberto De Zerbi is reportedly under consideration at the West London club. He has supporters within the Chelsea hierarchy.

McKenna emerged as a frontrunner early on, having steered Ipswich Town to successive promotions.

He had led the Tractor Boys into the Championship after winning the League One title in his first full season and now he has them back in the Premier League after a 22-year absence.

This impressive feat prompted Chelsea to enter discussions with the 38-year-old Northern Irishman. The club holds McKenna and his burgeoning managerial career in high regard.

However, after careful consideration, the Chelsea hierarchy, led by co-sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart, have narrowed their search to a select group that excludes the former Manchester United assistant coach. The ownership group is reportedly in agreement with this decision.

With the shortlist finalised, all eyes are now on Stamford Bridge as the Blues prepare to unveil their new leader. 

Maresca secured promotion to the Premier League with Leicester City in his first year as a manager, but doubts remain about his ability. 

The Foxes were the strongest team in the second division, and many expected them to jump back into the top flight.

Nevertheless, his possession-heavy style of play fits into what the front office reportedly wants to see their team play, and he is keen on the job. 

Frank is a puzzling decision as he is not a possession-crazed manager. His style is quite direct, leaving pundits and fans wondering how he fits into the Stamford Bridge picture.