Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca was full of praise for his young side after they sealed a place in the UEFA Europa Conference League final with an emphatic 5-1 aggregate win over Swedish outfit Djurgarden.

With many of Chelsea’s regular starters rested ahead of a crucial Premier League run-in, Maresca fielded what he described as “almost a second team” for the semi-final second leg—and they delivered in style.

“Very happy, the job is done tonight and now we have almost 20 days to prepare for this final and hopefully we can win this trophy,” Maresca told TNT Sports after the game.

“It’s good overall, a good performance with many young players. It is almost a second team. Very happy for the young boys and very happy to reach the final.”

The Italian coach has not only brought tactical discipline and structure since his arrival but is also overseeing the development of Chelsea’s next generation of stars. His faith in the academy talents is already paying dividends, with several youngsters impressing on the European stage.

Chelsea will now face Real Betis in the Conference League final on May 28, with the chance to end the season with silverware and build momentum for the next campaign.

However, Maresca was quick to stress the need to stay focused amid a hectic schedule. “We are in a good mood, a good run of results but now we have another game in less than 72 hours so we have to focus on that. [Newcastle] is a huge game. We have three more games and they are all important.”

Before the final in Athens, Chelsea have Premier League fixtures against Newcastle, Manchester United and Nottingham Forest—all vital in their pursuit of a top-five finish that could secure European football next season.

Maresca’s ability to balance squad rotation, youth development, and competitive results has been a standout feature of his debut season in charge. With the Conference League final looming and Champions League qualification still within reach, Chelsea fans have every reason to believe this campaign could end on a high.