Enzo Maresca Reflects On Chelsea’s Second Successive Defeat

Chelsea’s head coach, Enzo Maresca, has described his team’s 2-0 defeat to Ipswich Town on Monday, December 30, as ‘a strange game.’

Enzo Maresca acknowledged that in football, there are occasions when the performance does not align with the desired outcome.

In a post-match statement released on the club’s official website on Tuesday, December 31, the Italian manager highlighted that the Blues crafted numerous opportunities throughout both halves at Portman Road.

Maresca pointed out that the game had pivotal moments, including an offside goal that was scored by Joao Felix and another near miss when Cole Palmer struck the post during the first half. Despite their efforts, it was Ipswich who secured all three points, thanks to a penalty converted by Liam Delap in the 12th minute and a goal by former Chelsea winger Omari Hutchinson early in the second half.

Maresca elaborated on the game’s dynamics, stating, “It was a bit of a strange game. We generated so many chances in the first half, and within the first five to ten minutes of the second half, we had two clear scoring opportunities. Joao had a header that looked promising.”

He further lamented, “Unfortunately, I think the second goal effectively killed our momentum. There are times when you can produce a flurry of chances, hit the post, have VAR reviews go against you, or face incredible saves from the goalkeeper and resilient defending. It simply reinforces the reality that some days, despite our best efforts, things don’t go our way.”

The defeat marked a troubling turn for Chelsea, as it was their second consecutive loss under Maresca’s leadership, following a 2-1 setback against Fulham on Boxing Day. The team has managed to secure only one point from a possible nine since their draw with Everton, a goalless encounter on December 22.

Despite these struggles, Chelsea’s solid start under Maresca’s tenure means they currently sit in fourth place in the Premier League standings. They are just one point shy of third-place Arsenal and two points behind Nottingham Forest, who are in second place.

Addressing inquiries regarding the players’ physical condition during the post-match press conference, Maresca remarked, “No, I don’t think tonight’s performance was down to physical condition. When you find yourself creating chances, it’s not a reflection of fatigue or fitness levels; it’s more about whether you are imposing yourself on the game.”

He continued, “We showcased our ability to create numerous chances in the first half, and even in the second half, we started with the same intensity, generating two clear opportunities. However, once they scored their second goal, it took the wind out of our sails. Sometimes, it just doesn’t happen for you on that particular day.”

Looking ahead, Chelsea’s first match of the new year will see them face off against a familiar rival, Crystal Palace, this Saturday. Historically, the Blues have had a mixed record against the Eagles, with two losses, two wins, and one draw in their last five encounters.