Chelsea Head Coach Enzo Maresca Reveals Specific Demand Of Squad

Chelsea Head Coach Enzo Maresca Reveals Specific Demand Of Squad

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has outlined the protocol for players not included in the matchday squad. Since the start of his tenure with the Blues, decisions have been made regarding the players who will be involved in the current campaign.

The senior squad has been trimmed from 40 to around 25, with Maresca clearly indicating who is part of his plans and who is not.

Additionally, the Italian emphasized that no player should expect to participate in every match, especially with a busy schedule leading up to next summer’s Club World Cup.

Maresca has implemented frequent rotation during the cup competitions, with as many as 11 changes made for Tuesday’s EFL Cup win over Barrow.

What is Maresca’s preferred matchday protocol?
Although several key players were absent from the squad for the match against the League Two team, they still attended Stamford Bridge to support their teammates.

Speaking to reporters on Friday, Maresca emphasized that he expects all players, regardless of whether they’re included in the matchday squad, to be present for first-team games.

As he stated to the Daily Mail, “I want all of them there. Those in the squad must be there, and those not in the squad should be there too. We need to act as a team, and if there’s a game, everyone should attend.

“If there’s an issue and some players can’t make it, that’s not a problem. I wouldn’t call it a rule, but when there’s a game, players are expected to be there.

“In terms of culture, it’s quite normal for me to support my teammates by being there before the game and after to celebrate or console them, regardless of the outcome.

“It’s essential for them to attend, whether it’s a Premier League or Carabao Cup match. If we want to build something special, these little things matter a lot.”

How many players has Maresca utilized this season?
Although Chelsea has played only eight matches across all competitions, Maresca has already fielded 28 players.

Players such as Josh Acheampong, Ben Chilwell, Cesare Casadei, Carney Chukwuemeka, and Tyrique George are currently not in the running for Premier League appearances.

Despite his firm approach regarding the squad, the significant number of players already utilized indicates that Maresca is willing to explore all available options.