‘I was worried about this game’ – Enzo Maresca reveals

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

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca admitted feeling apprehensive ahead of his team’s 0-0 draw with Everton at Goodison Park, a result that brought their five-game winning streak to an end. The Blues had not dropped points since their clash with Arsenal on November 10.

“I was quite worried about this game,” Maresca revealed during his post-match press conference. “It’s a tricky game, tricky stadium, tricky team. They are defensively top. You struggle to create chances against them.”

Despite failing to break through Everton’s stubborn defence, Maresca expressed pride in his team’s ability to adapt to a challenging and unfamiliar style of play.

“You have to deal with it and learn to play different games,” he said. “Long balls, second balls, channels, set pieces. Football is not only about how well we play on the ball. It’s also about how you defend and deal with that. I’m very proud today.”

Maresca emphasised that the encounter at Goodison Park tested Chelsea in ways they hadn’t faced during their recent impressive run.

Maresca concluded: “Today’s game was a completely different game compared to the rest. You have to learn. It’s not easy but the way they showed togetherness has been brilliant today.”