Enzo Maresca’s Tough Stance: Second Chelsea Star Dropped After Boxing Day Loss
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has once again demonstrated his no-nonsense approach to team management following the Boxing Day defeat to Fulham. The Italian tactician made the bold decision to exclude Renato Veiga, the 21-year-old Portugal international, from the squad—marking the second high-profile omission this season after Noni Madueke was similarly dropped earlier.
Maresca attributed both decisions to “technical reasons,” emphasizing the competitive environment he seeks to cultivate within his squad.
Renato Veiga Left Out
Veiga, a £12 million summer signing who has featured seven times this season, was surprisingly absent from the Fulham matchday squad. Chelsea’s bench was filled with academy prospects, highlighting Maresca’s readiness to reward form and commitment over reputation.
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Speaking after the game, Maresca elaborated:
“For sure, the competition has to be higher—not only for Noni Madueke but also Renato Veiga. The reason is exactly the same for both of them. It’s just a technical decision.”
The Chelsea boss expects Veiga to respond positively to the omission and hinted at his potential return for the upcoming clash against Ipswich Town.
Noni Madueke’s “Tough Love”
Madueke has already experienced Maresca’s firm hand this season. The England winger was benched earlier this month due to inconsistent performances in training. However, the decision appeared to have the desired effect, as Madueke responded emphatically by scoring in Chelsea’s 5-1 demolition of Southampton in his next appearance.
Maresca is confident that Veiga can take similar inspiration from his exclusion, stating:
“He [Madueke] was very good, fantastic, and he responded well at that time. I expect the same this time, absolutely.”
Injuries and Fulham Fallout
In addition to Veiga’s absence, Maresca revealed that Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall was sidelined by injury for the Fulham fixture. The defeat to Fulham was a setback for Chelsea, who had been steadily improving under their new manager.
Following the loss, Cole Palmer offered a measured response, acknowledging the need for growth:
“It’s a good opportunity to learn, rest, recover, and play in three days. We knew we weren’t going to win every single game. It’s the manager’s first season with us, and we’re learning. Everyone said from the start we’re not title contenders—we’re just playing, winning, getting better, and growing as a team.”
Looking Ahead to Ipswich
The upcoming match against Ipswich Town presents a chance for Chelsea to bounce back and for players like Veiga and Madueke to reclaim their spots. Maresca’s strict but transparent approach underscores his ambition to create a high-performing, competitive squad capable of long-term success.
While setbacks are part of the process, Chelsea’s young squad is showing resilience and the capacity to grow under Maresca’s leadership.
Will Maresca’s tough love pay off again? Fans and critics alike will be watching closely as Chelsea continues its journey under the Italian’s meticulous management.
Enzo Maresca’s Tough Stance: Second Chelsea Star Dropped After Boxing Day Loss
