Chelsea’s dreams of a top-four finish took another hit on Saturday afternoon, as the Blues played out a drab 0-0 draw with struggling Brentford — a result that leaves Enzo Maresca’s side in a precarious position in the race for Champions League qualification.

The big talking point before kick-off was Enzo Maresca’s decision to leave Cole Palmer — arguably Chelsea’s most influential player this season — on the bench. The move baffled fans and pundits alike, especially given the importance of the match and Chelsea’s dire away form.

Palmer eventually came on just before the hour mark, but by then, the game had already settled into a stalemate rhythm. His only real chance saw him blaze over the bar, summing up a frustrating afternoon for the visitors.

Maresca’s team selection seemed to have one eye on Thursday’s UEFA Conference League quarter-final clash with Legia Warsaw — but sacrificing momentum in the Premier League could prove costly. Chelsea’s last away league win came all the way back in December, and there was little in this performance to suggest that streak is about to end.

Once again, Maresca’s trademark cautious approach drew criticism. Despite dominating possession for large spells, Chelsea looked toothless in attack and lacked the urgency or creativity to unlock a Brentford side who themselves haven’t tasted a home win in months.

With Manchester City lurking just behind in fifth and expected to leapfrog Chelsea if they beat Manchester United, the Blues’ grip on a Champions League spot is loosening. The fans will now be hoping Maresca can regroup quickly — not just in Europe, but in the league, where consistency has eluded Chelsea all season.

The question is: can Chelsea afford to rotate key players like Palmer in such critical league matches? Or is Maresca gambling too heavily on Europe while letting domestic priorities slip away?