Enzo Maresca on Chelsea’s Growth: Why We’re Not Ready for Premier League Title Yet
Enzo Maresca has emphasized the importance of experience and growth for his Chelsea squad after their commanding 3-0 victory over Aston Villa at Stamford Bridge.
Despite the Blues moving level on points with Arsenal and displaying their most cohesive performance under Maresca, the manager maintains that his team is not yet ready to challenge for the Premier League title.
Maresca on Chelsea’s Title Prospects:
“We are not ready to compete with Liverpool, Arsenal, and Manchester City, for many reasons,” Maresca said post-match. “Just because we won today, I’m not going to change my idea. We’re not ready for that. But the good thing is we are improving, and hopefully very soon we can be there.”
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The Italian manager stressed that his players need to “live moments” — such as finals and title challenges — to develop the resilience and experience required to compete at the highest level consistently.
Chelsea’s Dominant Performance
The win over Villa was a testament to Chelsea’s rapid progression under Maresca. The team combined high-energy pressing with fluid attacking play, resulting in three distinct goals:
- Nicolas Jackson’s opener: Marc Cucurella’s relentless pressing in midfield set up Jackson, who finished clinically off the post.
- Enzo Fernandez’s stunning strike: A well-worked team move involving Moises Caicedo and Cole Palmer ended with Fernandez flicking the ball up and striking it into the corner with the outside of his boot.
- Cole Palmer’s masterpiece: The 83rd-minute curler from the edge of the box showcased Palmer’s skill and confidence.
Maresca highlighted the need for continued improvement:
“We need to improve many things; we can attack better, defend better. You have to live moments to get better. When we start to get these moments, we’ll improve and be able to compete.”
Experience Gap
Maresca noted the difference in experience between his players and those at clubs like Arsenal, Liverpool, and Manchester City, whose squads have played in major finals and title deciders. “Arsenal, Liverpool, City players have all lived finals and competed for titles. We’re going to be there soon, but it’s the reason we are still far and not ready to compete,” he added.
Also, Read: Enzo Fernandez Flourishes in Advanced Role as Chelsea Adjust Formation
Injury Blow for Wesley Fofana
Chelsea’s victory was marred by a hamstring injury to Wesley Fofana, which Maresca estimates could sideline the defender for up to five weeks:
“It’s a big loss for us, but we have more players, and we will find a solution. It’s normal when you play this number of games.”
Villa’s Struggles Continue
Aston Villa boss Unai Emery reflected on his team’s eight-game winless streak, attributing some struggles to the challenge of balancing Champions League football with domestic commitments:
“We built last year so fast. We’re enjoying it now playing in Europe, but the league is the most important competition, and we have to try to come back.”
As Chelsea look to extend their strong form against Southampton midweek, the win over Villa has reinforced the growing belief in Maresca’s project. However, the manager’s measured approach underlines the long-term vision guiding Chelsea’s resurgence.
Enzo Maresca on Chelsea’s Growth: Why We’re Not Ready for Premier League Title Yet
