Maresca not enjoying thoughts video games and says it is a ‘actuality’ that Chelsea aren’t in title race

Enzo Maresca insists his declare that Chelsea aren’t within the title race is just not an try to take the stress off his gamers.

The Italian has repeatedly performed down the Blues’ probabilities of successful the Premier League regardless of his aspect going into Christmas in second place within the desk, 4 factors behind leaders Liverpool.

Maresca, who has completed a exceptional job in offering a component of calm to a membership seemingly completely in chaos previous to his arrival over the summer season, mentioned: “It’s the fact for me, not concerning the stress. I would love that type of stress.

“I say we’re not there as a result of that’s the actuality for me. The principle level is to proceed to enhance and to win video games.”

🗣️ “The principle factor for us is to attempt to enhance”

Is Enzo Maresca glad along with his Chelsea aspect’s place within the desk at Christmas? 🔵 pic.twitter.com/RLc9RQUTjE

— Sky Sports activities Information (@SkySportsNews) December 24, 2024

We’re glad to be the place we’re – Maresca

Maresca is happy with Chelsea’s progress, nonetheless, though he believes different groups – together with slumping Manchester Metropolis – will come on sturdy over the rest of the season.

He added: ”It’s virtually midway so the desk displays the groups and the place they’re. Liverpool are doing implausible because the first day. The squad already reside that type of second, it’s essential. We’re glad to be the place we’re on this second.

“I feel Manchester Metropolis in the long run will probably be there. They’re residing one thing that most likely by no means occurred earlier than. They’ve a brand new damage on the finish of each sport. It’s a very unhealthy state of affairs.

“We’re forward of our expectation by way of the way in which we’re enjoying and factors. For us, the principle focus is to see how we will enhance the gamers and the way we will enhance the crew.”

Maresca proud of bettering Fernandez

Chelsea host west London neighbours Fulham on Boxing Day trying to return to successful methods following the 0-0 draw at Everton on Sunday.

They should do with out midfielder Romeo Lavia who stays unavailable.

Enzo Fernandez will play, although, having proven a gradual enchancment over the previous few weeks.

“It’s good the participant can deal with what they can do and we attempt to assist them,” mentioned Maresca. “With Enzo we’re very glad. We moved him within the pocket for the final half an hour [at Everton]. He’s serving to us lots. He’s rising with management additionally.”