This is the first time since September – Enzo Maresca welcomes rare full week of preparation

Chelsea training
Photo: Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has expressed his relief at finally having a full week to prepare for upcoming fixtures after a grueling run of 10 matches across all competitions since December.

Speaking about the rare opportunity to focus on training and recovery, Maresca highlighted the importance of this break in the season.

“Now, fortunately, after September, this is the first week that we have an entire week now, so we have a chance to work, then prepare for the FA Cup game and then again with the Premier League,” he said.

The Blues have endured a packed schedule over the past few months, with matches coming thick and fast. The brief pause offers Maresca and his players an invaluable chance to reset and refine their strategies ahead of a crucial stretch in their campaign.

Chelsea’s next challenge will be an FA Cup tie against Morecambe FC on January 11, followed by a return to Premier League action. Maresca will be eager to see his team capitalise on this preparation time to build momentum and improve their consistency as the season progresses.