Chelsea FC: Maresca Faces Scrutiny as Season Progresses

London, May 28, 2025 – Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca remains under intense scrutiny as the 2024-25 season draws to a close, despite guiding the club back into the Champions League and steering them to the UEFA Conference League final against Real Betis.

Management’s Patience and Performance Review

Chelsea’s hierarchy, led by sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart, have signaled their intent to give Maresca time to implement his vision. According to multiple reports, the club plans a formal review of Maresca’s performance in the summer of 2026, with no immediate plans to accelerate that assessment despite recent mixed results. The decision reflects a shift toward long-term strategy, with the club’s leadership impressed by Maresca’s possession-based, structured football and his success at Leicester City prior to joining Chelsea.

Season’s Highs and Lows

Maresca enjoyed a strong start at Stamford Bridge, with Chelsea briefly in the title conversation before Christmas. However, a post-holiday slump saw the Blues drop to sixth in the Premier League after a disappointing run of just two wins in nine league games. The downturn, coupled with injuries and a congested fixture list, has fueled debate among fans and analysts about Maresca’s tactical approach and the team’s defensive vulnerabilities.

Despite these challenges, Chelsea secured Champions League qualification by beating Nottingham Forest, a feat that Maresca and the club’s board view as a sign of progress. Maresca has also emphasized the importance of underlying metrics such as expected goals (xG) and big chances created, suggesting that performances have often been better than results indicate.

Focus on Process, Not Just Results

Maresca has consistently urged his players to focus on their own performance rather than external factors. In a recent match, he instructed the squad to ignore updates about rivals’ scores—such as Aston Villa’s 2-0 result—and concentrate solely on their own game. This approach aligns with the club’s broader philosophy of building a sustainable, possession-oriented style.

Squad Management and Transfer Outlook

Injuries and player fatigue have been persistent concerns, especially with a demanding schedule that includes the Conference League final, the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup, and international commitments for many players. Maresca has acknowledged these challenges, warning of potential injury risks as the squad faces minimal rest before the new Premier League season begins.

The future of winger Jadon Sancho remains unresolved, with Maresca confirming that internal discussions are ongoing and no final decision has been made. Meanwhile, Chelsea are expected to back Maresca in the transfer market this summer, targeting reinforcements in attack and potentially overseeing notable departures as the club manages its squad and finances.

Looking Ahead

Despite the scrutiny, Chelsea’s leadership remains committed to their long-term project under Maresca. The Italian coach, who signed a five-year contract last summer, has expressed optimism about the direction of the team, stating, “I think we have a good season. That can become a very good season if we are able to finish top five and also if we are able to win the Conference League”.

As Chelsea prepares for the Conference League final against Real Betis, Maresca’s immediate focus is on ending the season with silverware and further consolidating the club’s progress. The coming months will be crucial, both on the pitch and in the boardroom, as Chelsea seeks to restore its status among Europe’s elite.