Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has reaffirmed his belief that the Blues’ recent loss to Aston Villa was his toughest defeat so far, as his side prepares to face Southampton in the Premier League.

After Chelsea’s narrow 2-1 defeat at Villa Park, Maresca initially described it as his most difficult loss since taking charge. When asked if he still felt that way or if his reaction was just in the heat of the moment, the Italian stood firm on his stance.

“I still feel that feeling because for the way, the performance was very good. To go to Villa Park and play the first half we played is an important statement,” Maresca explained.

Despite Chelsea delivering an impressive first-half display, the Blues left Birmingham empty-handed, a result that has contributed to their ongoing struggles in the league. Maresca admitted that Chelsea’s current form made the Villa loss even more painful.

“The problem at the end was the result, the result was not good for us. It was a tough one in that moment, also because we are in a bad run of results, so that is also the reason why,” he added.