Chelsea board responds to Enzo Maresca’s poor form.
Image credit: Chelsea FC
Enzo Maresca’s position at Chelsea has become a major talking point following a string of disappointing results.
The Italian manager, who arrived at Stamford Bridge last summer, initially impressed with a five-game winning streak in December.
However, with just three wins in their last ten Premier League matches and a humiliating 3-0 loss to Brighton, pressure is mounting on him.
Chelsea currently sit sixth in the table, one point behind fourth-placed Manchester City.
Yet, with Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest proving to be surprise challengers, the Blues’ chances of securing a Champions League spot are far from certain.
A Rocky Spell for Maresca
Surprisingly, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest look more consistent than Chelsea, raising doubts about whether Maresca’s side can finish in the top four.
Despite the team’s struggles, Maresca insists Chelsea are heading in the “right direction.” However, after the Brighton defeat, his frustration was evident.
“My frustration was about everything,” he admitted. “We feel sorry for the fans that came. In the position that we are, arriving with 14 games to go, we need to do much better.
We are in a moment when we feel we can concede easily and struggle to score. I think before the goal they didn’t have some chances. There are many things we can do better. Now is the moment we need to stick together. I always feel pressure, but this was the worst performance since I arrived.
However, thanks to the Premier League’s strong coefficient ranking, five English clubs could qualify for next season’s Champions League, keeping Chelsea in the race.
The Board’s Verdict
Despite fans’ frustrations, Chelsea’s ownership—led by Todd Boehly—remains optimistic.
According to The Athletic, the board believes Maresca is actually overperforming given the circumstances.
He was never expected to secure a top-four finish in his first season, making their current position acceptable in the club’s eyes.
Chelsea’s struggles have been compounded by injuries. The team lacks a recognized No. 9, with Nicolas Jackson and Marc Guiu sidelined, while João Félix was sent out on loan.
Key players like Romeo Lavia, Wesley Fofana, Benoît Badiashile, Noni Madueke, and Malo Gusto are also unavailable.
While pressure mounts, Maresca retains the board’s backing. But with crucial fixtures ahead, he’ll need to turn things around quickly to keep fans on his side.