As Chelsea gear up for the final stretch of a gripping Premier League campaign, manager Enzo Maresca has delivered a vital message to his players: stay focused, and manage the emotions.

With just four Premier League games left to play, the Blues currently sit in fifth place, holding on to a precious Champions League qualification spot. However, the battle is far from over, with several rivals breathing down Chelsea’s neck. For Maresca, how his players handle the pressure in the coming weeks could define their season.

“The mood is good, and I’ve said for a few weeks now that it’s a matter of how we manage emotions until the end,” Maresca told reporters. His message is clear – the mental side of the game could be just as important as tactics or technique during this crucial period.

“When we win games, we’re happy, and when we don’t win, we’re not happy. But it’ll be a race until the end, and we need to manage the emotions.”

Maresca’s emphasis on emotional control underlines the rollercoaster nature of a tight top-five race. The Chelsea boss is urging his team to keep their composure and focus on what they can control – their own performances.

“In this moment, the main thing is to watch ourselves and be focused on ourselves,” Maresca added. “This is the main point. For sure, there are more clubs involved, but for us, it’s essential to stay focused on ourselves.”

The Italian tactician is keen to ensure that Chelsea don’t get distracted by the results of their rivals. Instead, the emphasis is firmly on delivering consistent performances and racking up the points needed to secure a Champions League return.

That focus will be tested this Sunday, as Chelsea prepare for a massive clash against title-chasing Liverpool. It’s a match that could shape not only Chelsea’s European hopes but also the destination of the Premier League title.

“We will prepare the game in the best way we can because we know how important it is for us,” Maresca said. “We know on the other side is a team that has shown how good they are all season.”

As the pressure ramps up, Maresca is keeping his players grounded, reminding them that emotional discipline and internal focus could be the keys to a successful finish. With a Champions League spot within reach, the Blues have everything to play for – and Maresca’s message could be the guiding light through a tense finale.

Will Chelsea hold their nerve and finish strong? Time will tell, but one thing is certain – Maresca has made it clear what he expects from his players.