The victory over Everton felt hollow for Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca. While the 2-0 scoreline offered a return to winning form after a troubling run, Maresca revealed a disquieting truth: the past 48 hours had been the most difficult of his entire Chelsea career.
His confession wasn’t about tactical struggles or player performance. It was a stark admission of a deeper issue – a lack of support. Maresca was careful to clarify this wasn’t directed at the passionate Chelsea supporters, but the weight of his words hung heavy in the air.
“The last 48 hours has been the worst since I joined the club because many people didn’t support me and the team,” he stated, a sentiment that clearly stemmed from a growing frustration. When pressed, he broadened the scope, confirming the lack of backing was “in general,” not limited to within the club’s structure.
Reports suggest this wasn’t a spontaneous outburst born of a single difficult week. Dissatisfaction had been quietly building, simmering beneath the surface as challenges mounted. The manager felt a crucial element was missing, hindering both his vision and the team’s potential.
Despite the turmoil, Maresca was quick to commend his players’ adaptability and commitment. He highlighted the extraordinary efforts of Reece James and Malo Gusto, who seamlessly transitioned from their usual full-back roles into midfield positions during the match.
Cole Palmer’s goal, a powerful strike that broke the deadlock, was a bright spot in an otherwise complex situation. It marked his first home goal from open play since January, a significant moment for a player navigating a challenging year marked by injuries and disrupted form.
Maresca emphasized Palmer’s importance, stating, “With Cole we are a better team.” He then painted a picture of a season plagued by absences – 16 Premier League games without Moises Caicedo, 11 without Palmer, and almost all without Liam Delap.
“We played almost all season without our best player,” Maresca continued, his voice laced with a plea for understanding. He expressed a desire for external recognition of the team’s resilience and dedication in the face of constant adversity, a quiet call for acknowledgement of their struggles.
The manager’s words weren’t simply a post-match reflection; they were a window into a deeper struggle, a testament to the unseen pressures and challenges faced behind the scenes at one of football’s biggest clubs.
