Enzo Maresca may not longer be at Chelsea but the Italian's influence cannot be underestimated.
The 46-year-old was a key figure during his 18 months in charge of the Blues. He lifted the 2024-25 UEFA Conference League and then the FIFA Club World Cup just a couple of weeks later.
But it wasn't just Maresca's silverware tally that fans, and the players, liked. His ability to get the side firing was also a big positive. Under Maresca, Chelsea appeared to be on the right path to really challenge across multiple fronts, including in the Premier League.
A falling out with the club's hierarchy saw the Italian depart suddenly, though.
Chelsea announced Maresca had left his position in January by mutural consent with the club moving quickly to appoint Liam Rosenior; a truly regretable decision after the Englishman was sent packing just 106 days later.
And now with Xabi Alonso set to take over as the new manager from July 1, the future, once again, seems bright, but for some players that may not be quite the case.
Wesley Fofana facing uncertain Chelsea future
Marc Cucurella has already left and joined Real Madrid with speculation Enzo Fernandez could follow him continuing to gather pace.
And then there's Wesley Fofana. The Frenchman has three years left on his contract but, like Alejandro Garnacho, is another player who has been linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge.
The uncertainty surrounding Fofana stems from him being one of the team's highest valued players, and after the Blues missed out on European football next season, making sales has become even more important.
However, the 25-year-old didn't always appear destined to leave. Working under Maresca — just seven months ago — saw Fofana as one of the first names on the team sheet.
And according to a recent report from BBC Sport, the former Chelsea head coach told Fofana, behind closed doors, that he was the best defender the club has.
Due to his pace and power, the former Leicester City star was viewed as crucial to Maresca's style of play, which saw the Blues play a high defensive line.
How Alonso sees Fofana fitting into his plans could be completley different though...
Xabi Alonso must make big decision
Alonso's first season in charge in west London will see him take the reins at a pivotal time.
The 44-year-old will be plunged into his first big transfer window, and with so many issues to sort out, he'll be tested right away.
The Spaniard must decide the futures of several players, including Fofana, but judging by how highly he was rated under Maresca, Alonso may want Chelsea's sporting department to hold of looking for a buyer.
Since joining the Blues in 2022, Fofana, who currently earns £200,000-per week, has directly contributed to four goals in 72 matches in all competitions.
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