Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has moved to explain the reasoning behind his selection choices in the goalless draw against Brentford, particularly the limited game time for key attackers Cole Palmer and Noni Madueke.
Supporters were left surprised when Palmer was named on the bench for the London derby, with Madueke starting but later substituted just before the hour mark. As speculation grew that the decisions may have been linked to the upcoming UEFA Europa Conference League quarter-final clash with Legia Warsaw, Maresca set the record straight.
Speaking to the media, Maresca clarified: “Probably from outside, you receive in the wrong way the reason why Cole and Nico didn’t play.”
He continued by offering insight into his tactical plan for the game: “It wasn’t because we wanted them to play tomorrow. It was to start the game in one way and finish in another.”
Madueke was lively during his 59-minute stint, before being replaced by Palmer — who once again made an impact coming off the bench. However, Maresca’s comments reveal the changes were not simply to rest legs ahead of the midweek European tie, but part of a broader strategy to alter the game’s dynamics over 90 minutes.
What did you think of Maresca’s decision to bench Palmer and sub off Madueke early?
I think it was a mistake. We should have started the game strongly and push for a comfortable lead, and then rest players thereafter. Now we need to win our remaining matches to keep our champions league hopes alive. Newcastle have a game in hand and are equal on points with us. Our situation can be precarious, even with Man City.