Enzo Maresca explains why Chelsea lost 4-2 to Manchester City

Enzo Maresca
Photo: Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has pointed to pitch conditions as a factor in his team’s 4-2 pre-season defeat to Manchester City in the United States on Saturday evening.

The loss adds to a series of mixed results for Chelsea during their pre-season tour, with only one win registered against Club America.

“Sometimes when we say something it sounds like an excuse but for sure the pitch doesn’t help,” Maresca remarked post-match.

“This type of pitch slows down the ball. In this moment, we need to learn things. We need to learn when you concede one, you cannot concede another one. When we concede one it is the moment we need to become stronger to not concede another.”

Manchester City took an early lead through Erling Haaland, who converted a penalty in the fourth minute after being fouled by Chelsea’s Levi Colwill.

Haaland quickly doubled City’s advantage following a wayward pass from Moises Caicedo.

The second half saw further errors from Chelsea, with Raheem Sterling’s misplaced pass in the 56th minute leading to a City attack that Oscar Bobb finished off with a fine reverse strike.

Haaland completed his hat-trick by exploiting another mistake in Chelsea’s midfield from Malo Gusto, resulting in a swift transition and an excellent finish past Robert Sanchez.

Chelsea managed to pull back two goals through Raheem Sterling and Noni Madueke, but the defeat remains concerning for fans as the team prepares for the upcoming Premier League season.

Chelsea will face Manchester City again in their Premier League opener at Stamford Bridge on August 18. As the team continues to refine their strategies and address their weaknesses, Maresca’s emphasis on learning and resilience will be crucial in their preparations for the new season.

1 Comment on "Enzo Maresca explains why Chelsea lost 4-2 to Manchester City"

  1. Adam M Aliyu | August 4, 2024 at 8:54 am |

    Sanchez is not a good goalkeeper
    Chelsea should leave petrovic and sales Sanchez

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