Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has issued a stern reminder to his players ahead of their midweek fixture, insisting that every match carries equal weight in the pursuit of points. Following a demanding week that saw impressive performances against European giants Barcelona and London rivals Arsenal, the Blues face a potentially tricky trip to Leeds United on Wednesday.
The Three-Point Philosophy
Maresca is determined to prevent any complacency from creeping into his young squad. He has explicitly drawn comparisons between their recent high-profile matches and the upcoming Championship test. The Italian coach emphasised that the three points on offer at Elland Road are identical in value to those contested against Barcelona and Arsenal.
"Now, the main message for me is quite clear," stated Maresca. "How many points for beating Barcelona? Three points. How many points against Arsenal? Three points. How many points against Leeds? Three points." He acknowledged that certain fixtures feel bigger due to various external factors, but the fundamental prize remains unchanged. "I understand there are games that are more important for different reasons, but again, it's three points, so it's important to beat Leeds, because we need to win games."
Respecting the Challenge Ahead
Maresca refused to underestimate the difficulty of the task facing his team away from home. He pointed out that matches against sides like Leeds and Bournemouth present a unique and formidable challenge, distinct from their recent glamour ties.
"Leeds and Bournemouth, both games, especially away, are difficult for Chelsea," he admitted. "They are difficult for any team. They will be different games to Barcelona or Arsenal. We have to be prepared. We have to try to win both." This caution comes despite Chelsea's strong recent form, which included a 3-0 thrashing of Barcelona in the Champions League and a resilient 1-1 draw with Arsenal in the Premier League, a match played largely with ten men.
Team News: Palmer Returns, James Managed
The Chelsea squad receives a significant boost with the return of key attacker Cole Palmer. Maresca confirmed the England international is available for selection for the first time since September. "He's available, he could start, the idea is to start giving him minutes until he can play 90," said the Blues' boss regarding Palmer.
However, the club will continue to manage captain Reece James carefully following his injury history. Despite completing a full 90 minutes impressively against Arsenal, he is unlikely to start at Leeds. "It's complicated," Maresca said of James. "I would like him to start, but we have to do the right thing."
Chelsea remain without midfielders Romeo Lavia and Darío Essugo. The latter's absence is particularly felt as he could have provided cover for the suspended Moisés Caicedo, who was sent off in the clash with Arsenal.
