Enzo Maresca Says Chelsea are Exceeding Expectations

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca remains optimistic about his team’s chances for the season, despite recent struggles in the English Premier League (EPL).

Following a strong start to the 2024-25 season, the Blues have slipped from second to sixth place in the EPL rankings, failing to win the majority of their previous matches. A 3-1 defeat to Manchester City on Saturday, 25 January, exposed Chelsea’s ongoing issues, particularly with defensive errors and wasted opportunities.

Maresca has acknowledged goalkeeper Robert Sanchez’s costly mistakes, noting: “Robert is the first one [to admit] he knows he has to do better.” However, he has also emphasised the club’s progress, adding: “We are better than one or two months ago.”

The 44-year-old Italian manager previously identified a lack of clinical finishing as a critical issue, with Chelsea averaging over 25 shots per game but failing to find the back of the net. He emphasised the need for composure, particularly at Stamford Bridge, where the team has struggled against defensive opponents.

Maresca knows his side’s chances are slim and doesn’t seem to expect to earn a UEFA Champions League spot this time around.

Captain Reece James has echoed the same sentiments, attributing their slump to misfortune but remaining confident in the team’s development.

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