Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca believes the turning point in his side’s emphatic 5-1 Champions League win over Ajax came when Kenneth Taylor was sent off early in the game.

Speaking to TNT Sports after the match, Maresca explained: “The red card changed the game. When we conceded a red card, we know how difficult it is.”

Ajax midfielder Kenneth Taylor was dismissed after just half an hour, leaving the Dutch side to play with ten men for more than an hour. Chelsea took full advantage of the situation, scoring all five of their goals after the red card — including the opener, which came directly from the resulting free kick.

Despite making significant changes to his starting lineup, Maresca’s side dominated proceedings once Ajax were reduced to ten. The Italian tactician emphasised the importance of rotation given the packed fixture schedule, saying: “In any case, we started well. With 10 changes, it is a demanding season, so we need to rotate.”

He acknowledged that the red card completely shifted the balance of the match, making it nearly impossible for Ajax to compete on equal footing.

“When you concede a red card with more than one hour to play it is difficult to play.”

The result marks one of Chelsea’s most commanding performances under Maresca, and it showcased the squad depth that has often been questioned this season.

With several fringe players stepping up and a clinical attacking display, Chelsea sent a clear message to the rest of Europe.