It appears the end game has finally been reached for Enzo Maresca and Chelsea.
Despite Chelsea having a midweek game against AFC Bournemouth two days ago, and a trip to the Etihad to face Manchester City this weekend, the talk of the town has not been on the pitch.
Indeed not, it has instead been regarding the immediate future of Chelsea head coach, Enzo Maresca. The 45-year old has not been subtle with his comments in recent interviews, and it is clear he has been unhappy at the club.
So, whether the Italian walks out on the club, or is relieved of his duties by the club hierarchy, there has been much doubt cast over his immediate future in West London.
Well, we now have an update. It has now been confirmed by the club that Maresca has indeed left the club on today, new year's day 2026.
Whatever your thoughts are on the situation, whether you are pro-Maresca, anti-Maresca, or on the fence - this situation is a mess and is one that needed resolving as soon as possible. If Chelsea are to have a new manager, they will want to do so with plenty of the January transfer window still remaining.
Whilst some may see Maresca walking as a cowardice move, it at least gets rid of the friction quickly. Also, you could argue that allowing the problems to continue just so you get a pay off is a more cowardly move. Giving up your severance pay is the more honourable thing to do.
Who the Blues move to next will be interesting to see. No doubt that manager of Chelsea's sister club Strasbourg, Liam Rosenior, is someone that will pop up a lot. At just 41-years old, he is seen as a very promising coach who has developed a lot of players, namely Emmanuel Emegha, who will join the club this coming summer.
There is also ex-Blue (even if only briefly) Filipe Luis, who has done a remarkable job at Brazilian side Flamengo, sweeping up domestic trophies and the Copa Libertadores. His side were the only team to beat Chelsea at the Club World Cup, and they have also been competitive against both Bayern Munich and Paris Saint Germain.
The excellent work of Frank Lampard at Coventry City will not have gone unnoticed, but would he really return to the club for a third time? Whoever comes in will certainly be fascinating to see either way.