Chelsea Manager Enzo Maresca Reiterates Team’s Realistic Expectations in Premier League Standings
As the Premier League season approaches its midpoint, Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca spoke at a press conference to set the tone for their upcoming match against Southampton. With the team tied for second place with Arsenal, Maresca was quick to acknowledge the storied histories of the top teams, including Arsenal and Manchester City.
Arsenal, the manager noted, has been a perennial contender, consistently vying for the top spot alongside Manchester City, while Chelsea still lags behind. Maresca recognizes the importance of momentum and experience in such a competitive league, crediting both teams for their impressive past performances.
However, his words were peppered with a dose of reality. He emphasized that the pressure to be in the title hunt is a positive motivating factor, but this is not currently the situation for Chelsea. “The thrill of being in contentions is a thrilling feeling for both myself and the players,” Maresca said, “but it’s the kind of pressure that’s enjoyable because it means we’re performing at the highest level.” He tempered expectations, stating, “Unfortunately, that’s not our situation this season. We hope to be in that position soon, though.”
The conversation didn’t stop there, as Maresca also discussed his recent meeting with Ruud van Nistelrooy, the former Manchester United striker who recently accepted the manager role at Leicester City. Maresca recalled their pre-announcement conversation, where he shared his positive thoughts on Leicester and its staff, but made it clear that the final decision rested with Van Nistelrooy.
In a show of Sportsmanship, Maresca acknowledged the Dutchman’s decision, while also expressing his endorsement for Leicester City.
