Enzo Maresca described the last 48 hours as his "worst" since joining Chelsea, despite a 2-0 home win over Everton on Saturday that lifted the Blues to fourth in the Premier League. Cole Palmer scored in the 45th minute on his first home start since August, ending a four-game winless streak across competitions. Malo Gusto added a second in the 57th minute with a deflected strike, securing Chelsea's first clean sheet in five matches. Maresca praised the victory but quickly lamented a lack of support from unspecified sources.
The Chelsea manager, in his debut 2024/25 season, has already guided the team to Europa Conference League and Club World Cup titles, marking a trophy-laden start. Yet post-match, responding to a question about Gusto's performance, Maresca vented frustration over absent backing during a tough run that included defeats at Leeds and Atalanta, plus a goalless draw at Bournemouth. He clarified his comments did not target fans, stating, "I love the fans and we are very happy with the fans." Pre-match on Friday, he had noted that only wins silence social media complaints after decades in football.
Maresca reserved strong praise for his squad's resilience amid a brutal injury toll. Key midfielder Cole Palmer, Chelsea's top scorer with 12 Premier League goals this season, returned after missing Tuesday's Champions League loss to Atalanta due to groin and toe injuries from a two-month absence. "With Cole we are a better team," Maresca said, highlighting 16 league games played without Palmer for 11, Moises Caicedo for five, and Liam Delap for most. Palmer's return boosted creativity, creating three chances against Everton.
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The win showcased Chelsea's depth, with Gusto's goal coming from his fifth shot of the season and earning him man-of-the-match honors. Maresca emphasized collective effort: "No matter who is playing is doing fantastic. We played almost all season without our best player." This marked Chelsea's seventh home Premier League win, maintaining an unbeaten Stamford Bridge run in the league since September. The result eased pressure after a dip that saw them slip from second to seventh midweek.
Despite the triumph, Maresca urged external appreciation for his players' efforts under adversity. He stressed the victory validated their hard work, with Chelsea now on 28 points from 16 games, three behind leaders Arsenal. Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez's eight saves this month underscored defensive solidity. Maresca's comments hint at media or ownership scrutiny, though he focused inwardly on squad unity.
Looking ahead, Chelsea face Manchester City in the Carabao Cup quarterfinals midweek, testing their momentum. Maresca's tenure boasts a 65% win rate across 40 matches, but he seeks broader recognition. The Everton win provided relief, yet his "worst 48 hours" remark lingers as a call for patience amid ongoing recoveries. Club sources confirm full backing internally.
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