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Enzo Maresca wants Chelsea Defensive Superstar as Top Target at Man City
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By Ojomah Austin.
According to a report by Football London on June 13, 2026, some Chelsea supporters were reportedly unhappy with Enzo Maresca’s departure earlier this year, with many more frustrated by how the situation unfolded behind the scenes than by the exit itself.
The report suggests that internal disagreements within Chelsea’s leadership contributed to growing tensions, particularly over decision-making power in areas such as contracts, squad planning, and overall club direction. These issues are believed to have played a major role in the breakdown that led to Maresca leaving Stamford Bridge.
Despite the circumstances, Maresca is said to have remained highly valued by players. His tactical ideas, coaching methods, and man-management style reportedly earned strong approval in the dressing room, helping to build a positive and united squad that produced strong results on the pitch.
Although his time at Chelsea was brief, it was successful, with the club winning both the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup under his guidance, boosting his reputation as one of Europe’s rising coaches.
Now managing Manchester City, Maresca is reportedly interested in reuniting with one of his former Chelsea players. French right-back Malo Gusto has emerged as a top target for the position ahead of the summer transfer window.
Journalist Marco Barzaghi claims that Manchester City have placed Gusto high on their defensive shortlist, with Maresca’s admiration playing a key role in the pursuit. The City manager is believed to value Gusto’s versatility, athletic ability, and tactical awareness, traits that impressed him during their time together at Chelsea.
Gusto has become an important player for Chelsea in recent seasons, particularly with Reece James struggling with injuries. He has consistently stepped in and delivered reliable performances, allowing James to occasionally play further forward or in central midfield.
Last season, Gusto made 49 appearances across all competitions, highlighting his importance and consistency. His pace, attacking threat, defensive recovery, and work rate have made him one of the most reliable modern full-backs in Chelsea’s squad.
Despite growing interest from top clubs, Chelsea are reluctant to sell. The club reportedly consider him a key long-term asset, especially with academy talent Josh Acheampong emerging as part of their future plans.
As the transfer window approaches, it remains uncertain whether Manchester City will succeed in their pursuit or if Chelsea will resist offers and keep one of their most dependable defenders.
By Ojomah Austin.
According to a report by Fabrizio Romano, on Sunday June 14 2026, Marc Cucurella has completed his move from Chelsea to Real Madrid in a transfer that has quickly become one of the most talked-about deals of the summer window.
The Spanish left-back is understood to have finalised all major aspects of the agreement, with both clubs reaching a full understanding over a package reportedly worth in excess of €50 million. The deal was accelerated after Real Madrid identified Cucurella as a priority target to reinforce their defensive options ahead of the new season, particularly with demands increasing across both domestic and European competitions.
Cucurella’s arrival in Madrid marks a significant return to La Liga for the defender, who previously built his reputation in Spain before moving to the Premier League. During his time at Chelsea, he experienced a mixed spell, featuring regularly but also facing periods of inconsistency as the club went through managerial and tactical transitions. Despite this, his work rate, versatility, and ability to contribute in both defensive and attacking phases kept him as a valuable squad member.
At Real Madrid, the expectation is that he will provide strong competition at left-back while also offering tactical flexibility, which is highly valued within the squad structure. The club’s recruitment strategy in recent seasons has focused on blending established stars with players capable of adapting to multiple roles, and Cucurella is seen as fitting that profile.
Chelsea, meanwhile, are believed to have accepted the offer as part of a wider squad restructuring plan, with the club continuing to evaluate its defensive depth and long-term planning under its current project. While the decision reflects a major outgoing, it also signals a willingness to sanction significant sales when the financial and sporting conditions align.
The report suggests that all formalities have now been completed, with only official club announcements remaining before the transfer is fully confirmed to supporters. If announced, this signing will stand as one of Real Madrid’s notable moves of the window, strengthening their squad ahead of another demanding campaign.
By Ojomah Austin.
Paris Saint-Germain forward, Bradley Barcola, has handed in a transfer request after interest from Arsenal and Liverpool.
The French international was a regular for PSG last season.
The 23-year-old scored 13 goals in all competitions as he won the UEFA Champions League and the Ligue 1 with the Parisians.
However, Barcola was dropped for the Champions League final against Arsenal as Desire Doue, Ousmane Dembele and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia started ahead of him in attack.
According to talkSPORT Barcola had asked to leave PSG following interest from the Premier League duo.
He normally normally plays on PSG’s left flank, and that is the same area Arsenal are looking to strengthen in the transfer window.
It’s yet to be seen if Barcola will end up joining the Premier League champions in the coming season.
Arsenal are exploring a deal to sign winger Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge.
According to The Athletic, a move for Tzolis would not impact the Gunners’ interest in Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers or an alternative target.
The club’s sporting director, Andrea Bertea, continues to work in the market to strengthen their attack.
Sources believe a deal for Tzolis could be possible for around €40million.
The 24-year-old scored 43 goals for Club Brugge across two seasons, having found the net 23 times for Fortuna Dusseldorf in 2. Bundesliga in 2023-24.
Arsenal are looking to bring in a new left winger, and have inquired about Juventus’ 21-year-old Turkey international Kenan Yildiz.
Enzo Maresca wants Chelsea Defensive Superstar as Top Target at Man City
Real Madrid complete a Shocking Signing of Chelsea Superstar
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