Problems at both ends of the pitch: Chelsea’s struggles under enzo maresca
Chelsea’s recent dip in form has left fans and pundits alike questioning their ability to maintain consistency in the Premier League. Manager Enzo Maresca had previously downplayed his side’s title credentials, even when they were sitting second in the table and just two points behind leaders Liverpool in mid-December. His caution now appears justified, as Chelsea have managed just one league victory since then, with issues cropping up both defensively and in attack.
One of the key concerns at the back has been goalkeeper Robert Sanchez. The Spaniard has made a league-high five mistakes directly leading to goals, raising doubts over his reliability between the posts. While his shot-stopping ability has shown flashes of quality, his decision-making has left Chelsea exposed on multiple occasions. Defensive errors have cost them valuable points, and the pressure is mounting on Maresca to make changes in the goalkeeping department.
Meanwhile, at the other end of the pitch, Nicolas Jackson’s struggles in front of goal have been a major talking point. The Senegalese forward has not found the net since mid-December, a worrying drought for a player expected to lead the line for Chelsea. While his work rate and movement off the ball have been commendable, his finishing has been inconsistent, leaving the Blues in desperate need of a reliable goal-scorer.
The timing of Chelsea’s decline is particularly curious. With their UEFA Conference League campaign on hold, some expected the squad to benefit from the extra rest. However, the opposite has occurred. The midweek European fixtures allowed Maresca to rotate heavily, often making up to 11 changes to his starting line-up. This kept fringe players match-fit and involved, maintaining a healthy level of competition within the squad. Now, those players find themselves either on the bench or linked with moves away, creating an unsettling atmosphere within the team.
Adding to the turbulence is the ongoing speculation surrounding the January transfer window. Maresca has voiced his frustration over the distractions, referring to the transfer period as an “absolute nightmare.” While his comment was partly tongue-in-cheek, it reflects the reality of managing a squad under constant scrutiny. The uncertainty over player departures and potential arrivals has further destabilised Chelsea, preventing them from building the momentum they desperately need.
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Maresca’s tactical approach, which emphasises possession and structured build-up play, worked well in the first half of the season. However, as opponents have adjusted, Chelsea have struggled to break down well-organised defences. Without a clinical striker to convert chances, their attacking play has often appeared blunt and predictable. Defensively, lapses in concentration have been costly, with the backline failing to provide the solidity required for a sustained title challenge.
With the business end of the season approaching, Chelsea must find solutions quickly. Whether that involves a change in personnel, tactical tweaks, or bolstering the squad in the transfer window remains to be seen. What is clear, however, is that their problems at both ends of the pitch must be addressed if they are to salvage their season and secure a strong finish in the league.
Maresca’s Chelsea project is still in its early stages, and while setbacks were always likely, the current run of form is concerning. The Italian will need to rally his players, restore confidence, and navigate the challenges ahead if the Blues are to get back on track. With tough fixtures looming, Chelsea fans will be hoping for a swift turnaround before their season unravels further.
