Scott Minto believes Chelsea's ideal manager would struggle with board demands

As Chelsea continues their search for a new manager, former Chelsea left-back Scott Minto has weighed in on the debate, expressing his preference for Leicester City's Enzo Maresca over Roberto De Zerbi.

Speaking to talkSPORT, Minto questioned De Zerbi's compatibility with the Chelsea hierarchy, suggesting that the Italian coach, who recently parted ways with Brighton, would struggle to work harmoniously with the Chelsea board. Minto believes that De Zerbi would likely fall out with the board within a year, as he would not accept the terms and conditions set by them.

"Can you imagine De Zerbi working with the Chelsea hierarchy right now? He wouldn't accept it or get past the interview because the board would say 'we can't have this guy because he won't let us do what we want to do'."

- Scott Minto

Minto stated that it's difficult to imagine De Zerbi working with the Chelsea hierarchy right now. He added that the board would likely conclude that they cannot have a manager who won't let them do what they want to do.

Minto acknowledged that many Chelsea fans might prefer a world-class, ready-made manager, similar to what they had during the Roman Abramovich era. However, he believes such a manager would be unlikely to accept the current terms and conditions at the club.

"Two, he wouldn’t last a year. I think a lot of Chelsea fans will be thinking, ‘Do you know what? We want a ready-made world-class manager’ which is what they had under the [Roman] Abramovich era."

- Scott Minto

In contrast, Minto sees Maresca as a better fit for Chelsea's current requirements. He explained that Enzo Maresca ticks the boxes the Chelsea owners are looking for, as he would be more likely to accept the terms and conditions while being a very good coach.

"I think it will be Maresca."

- Scott Minto

Maresca, who successfully guided Leicester back to the Premier League, has caught the attention of Chelsea's hierarchy with his possession-based football style. Leicester City is reportedly seeking £9-10 million in compensation for the Italian coach.

If Maresca does make the move to Stamford Bridge, West Bromwich Albion manager Carlos Corberan is understood to be a potential target for Leicester to fill the vacancy.

As Chelsea continues their pursuit of Maresca, Minto's insights shed light on the potential challenges De Zerbi might have faced at the London club. The former Chelsea defender's comments suggest that the club is prioritising a manager who aligns with their current vision and expectations, rather than opting for a high-profile name.

The managerial search at Chelsea has taken a fascinating turn, with Enzo Maresca emerging as the preferred candidate. While some fans may have hoped for a more established name, Scott Minto's assessment highlights the importance of finding a coach who can work effectively within the club's structure and philosophy. As the situation unfolds, all eyes will be on Chelsea to see if they can secure Maresca's services and usher in a new era of success at Stamford Bridge.