Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has admitted that his team’s 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa was the most difficult result to accept this season, despite the Blues delivering a strong performance.

“This is probably for me personally the toughest defeat of the season,” Maresca confessed, highlighting his frustration after his side failed to capitalize on their chances.

The Blues had bounced back impressively from their previous match against Brighton, but their inability to convert key opportunities ultimately cost them against Villa.

“The reaction from Brighton was brilliant, the performance was really good but the result was not enough. You need to be clinical. The difference is inside of the box,” Maresca explained.

Chelsea created numerous chances but lacked the cutting edge in front of goal, a recurring issue that has hindered their progress this season. Maresca will now look to address these inefficiencies as his team prepares for their next challenge.