Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has revealed a subtle but significant tactical shift in his team’s approach to set-pieces — specifically corner kicks — as the Blues continue preparations for the upcoming Premier League season.

Speaking during the Club World Cup, where Chelsea are using the competition as both a trophy opportunity and a tactical testing ground, Maresca lifted the lid on changes that could shape the way his side threatens from dead-ball situations this term.

“Since we started this competition, we have a new structure in corner,” Maresca confirmed.

“And the reason why is because we are always looking to improve things.”

While some managers might treat corner routines as an afterthought, Maresca clearly sees them as a vital part of his overall attacking philosophy — and an area ripe for improvement.

“And offensively, during the Premier League, I think if we want to be dangerous, we need to improve things,” he added.

That message couldn’t be clearer. While Chelsea’s build-up play and possession structure have taken centre stage under the Italian tactician, Maresca is also focused on the so-called small margins — the areas of the game where trophies are often won or lost.

During last season’s Premier League campaign, Chelsea struggled to make their corner kicks truly count. Despite boasting physically dominant players like Benoît Badiashile, Tosin Adarabioyo and Levi Colwill, the Blues didn’t rank among the top teams for goals scored from corners.

Maresca clearly intends to change that. The decision to introduce a “new structure” at corners during the Club World Cup suggests he’s using the tournament to experiment in a lower-pressure environment. With silverware up for grabs and players gaining valuable minutes, it’s the perfect proving ground.

Chelsea fans will be watching closely in the coming weeks to see what this “new structure” looks like in practice — and more importantly, whether it delivers results.