Arsenal legend Ian Wright criticises Enzo Maresca for making this statement

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

Chelsea’s recent struggles in the Premier League have sparked criticism, with former Arsenal striker Ian Wright taking issue with manager Enzo Maresca’s comments about the title race. Wright believes Maresca’s public admission that Chelsea are not in the title race could negatively impact the players’ mentality.

“He didn’t need to say that. He could have just said it in the dressing room,” Wright remarked. “George Graham wouldn’t say anything that made you think that, and Arsène Wenger as well was very positive.”

Chelsea currently sit sixth in the Premier League with 40 points from 23 matches. While Maresca has guided the Blues to a solid position in his first season, Wright believes the manager’s words could serve as an excuse for a potential dip in performances.

“When I heard it, I thought it’s almost like giving the players a get out of jail free card if you start playing badly,” Wright added. “I found it strange – it didn’t need to be said. At some stage, there was going to be some form of drop-off without him saying that and giving them an excuse.”

The former England international suggested that Maresca should have framed the situation differently to maintain a competitive mindset within the squad.

“He should have just said it’s brilliant, we’re ahead of schedule, and we will see where we are. That’s what you do,” Wright concluded.

Maresca’s comments may have been an attempt to manage expectations, but with Chelsea still in contention for European spots, questions remain over whether his words will influence the squad’s mentality in the coming months.

1 Comment on "Arsenal legend Ian Wright criticises Enzo Maresca for making this statement"

  1. Wright is right about this, Maresca was just been scared of instant success, then fear of the unknown gripped in, results start dwindling.. that’s a statement of a failure.. he should’ve done better

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