Enzo Maresca refuses to explain after controversial statement

Chelsea got a strong start to the 2025/26 season after winning the FIFA Club World Cup in the United States. However, recent results have been disappointing, with Maresca’s side winning only one match in December - a 2-0 victory over Everton. As a result, rumours have emerged suggesting Chelsea could consider sacking Maresca if results do not improve.

The Italian coach appeared under growing pressure when he said after the Everton win:  “This is the reason why I praise the players, because with so many problems they are doing very well after a complicated week. The last 48 hours have been the worst 48 hours since I joined the club because many people didn’t support us.”

Those comments surprised many and sparked speculation about what Maresca meant by “the worst 48 hours”. Before the EFL Cup clash with Cardiff, he was pressed again on the issue but repeatedly insisted he had “nothing to add” and asked everyone to focus on the upcoming match. His refusal to elaborate has only fuelled further questions from fans and the media about possible internal issues at Chelsea.

So far, no concrete rumours - even from sources close to the club - have clarified what happened. Some reports have suggested his comments were aimed at co-owner Behdad Eghbali, but there is no evidence to support this claim.

What is clear is that the pressure on Maresca is increasing. Chelsea are currently fourth in the Premier League with 28 points, five behind Aston Villa and eight adrift of leaders Arsenal. They are also being chased closely, with Crystal Palace, Manchester United, Liverpool and Sunderland all just two points behind. In the Champions League, Chelsea sit 13th with 10 points after six matches - not disastrous, but below expectations for the reigning Club World Cup champions.

After tomorrow’s match against Cardiff, Chelsea will return to Premier League action, with upcoming fixtures against Newcastle (20/12), Aston Villa (28/12) and Bournemouth (31/12).