Enzo Maresca’s comments after yesterday’s Chelsea win caught everyone out.
The Chelsea coach seemed calm and composed after a pretty routine win, but out of nowhere claimed he felt a lack of support at the club. He made it clear this wasn’t addressed to the fans, and follow up reports from insiders today have confirmed that it was aimed at figures within the club.
They discussed his words on Match of the Day last night, which was the first time we really heard something concrete from a pundit on the manager’s words. Danny Murphy warned the Chelsea boss to be careful:
“Enzo Maresca has got to be careful,” Murphy said.
“I think you have to realise with the owners and club you are working for, he’s been given an amazing opportunity to manage a massive football club after only managing Leicester. Did he expect to gain control because of winning the Conference League?
“Let’s put it in perspective. He’s done well, I’m not doubting that. What I am saying is, football is ruthless and these are multi-billionaire owners and if they feel their manager is talking directly to them through the press it is not going to end well for him. He’s got a wonderful opportunity to have success with Chelsea. Maybe just pick your moments to… be quiet.”
We agree. It’s odd to see Maresca, who has up until now been a company man, make these sorts of moves. HE could easily overplay his hand, given he’s basically starting a war against the people who employed him and could move him on at any moment.
We’d imagine this will all be smoothed over publicly, but there’s no taking back what’s already been said. This could be the start of something much bigger.
