Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has stubbornly refused to elaborate on his explosive claim that he endured the 'worst 48 hours' of his tenure in the build-up to last weekend's win over Everton, despite repeated questioning at a tense press conference.
Press Conference Tensions Rise
Speaking ahead of Tuesday night's Carabao Cup quarter-final against Cardiff City, the Italian coach was asked multiple times to explain who he felt had failed to show 'support' for him and his players. Maresca had made the unexpected comment following Chelsea's 2-0 Premier League victory against Everton on Saturday, casting a shadow over the result.
Rather than provide clarity, Maresca became visibly annoyed and stood by his original statement. 'I already spoke about that and I don't have anything to add,' he stated. When pressed further, he curtly replied: 'It's Cardiff tomorrow, please.'
This sparked a back-and-forth with reporters, during which Maresca reiterated his position. 'I respect your opinion and I respect people's opinions, but again, I don't have anything to add,' he said. 'We are in an era where everyone can say what they think... What I said after the Everton game, I already spoke about that, and I don't have anything to add.'
Speculation Over Target of Criticism
While Maresca confirmed his love for the Chelsea supporters, more than one source has indicated the cryptic criticism was likely aimed at the club's hierarchy, such as co-sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart, rather than fans or media. The exact nature of his grievance remains unclear.
The controversial remarks came after a difficult week where Chelsea had failed to beat Atalanta, Bournemouth, and Leeds before finally overcoming Everton. Despite the furore, Maresca was adamant about his commitment when directly asked if he was happy at the club. 'Absolutely, yes,' he affirmed.
Focus Shifts to Cardiff Cup Clash
Maresca repeatedly shifted focus to the imminent Carabao Cup tie against League One side Cardiff City, managed by his former Manchester City colleague Brian Barry-Murphy. He warned his team against complacency, stating such games are dangerous for favourites.
He also highlighted that a win would see Chelsea reach their third semi-final under his leadership in 18 months, adding to the Conference League and Club World Cup triumphs. The press conference, broadcast on Chelsea's official app, cut out briefly as a reporter asked if he had been asked to explain his comments to the club's directors, though this was later attributed to a technical glitch.
