SBOTOP: After a Terrible 48 Hours, Enzo Maresca Speaks Out – And It’s Controversial

Enzo Maresca’s post-match remarks following Chelsea’s win over Everton have drawn widespread attention and speculation. The Italian manager described the 48 hours leading up to the match as the “worst” since his arrival at the club, without clarifying whom he was referring to.

The comments come amid a mixed period for Chelsea. While the Blues remain near the top of the Premier League table, they had only collected two points from their previous three matches. Additionally, a recent defeat to Atalanta in the Champions League has compounded the pressure on the team and the coaching staff.

Former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney believes Maresca’s statement was not a spontaneous emotional outburst. According to Rooney, the remarks likely carried a deliberate message that could influence how the club’s ownership perceives the manager.

Rooney: Maresca’s Comments Were Calculated

Rooney drew parallels between Maresca’s situation and a recent incident involving Mohamed Salah, suggesting that both cases involved careful planning. He noted that Maresca was fully aware of his words and their potential impact.

“To me, this is very similar to the Mohamed Salah situation last week, where everything was very deliberate,” Rooney explained.
“Maresca knew exactly what he was saying and who it was aimed at. The board and Chelsea’s owners would also understand that the message was directed toward them.”

The former striker emphasized that such public statements rarely happen without a strong reason. He believes Maresca deliberately chose the moment to voice his frustration, even if he did not directly name anyone.

Potential Backlash if Chelsea Slips

Rooney also warned that Maresca’s approach could backfire if Chelsea experiences another poor run of results. He compared the scenario to Ruben Amorim, who enjoyed strong backing from Manchester United owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe during challenging periods.

“You have to respect the club owners,” Rooney said.
“They are the ones who hire you and give you the opportunity. I feel Maresca was somewhat challenging that authority.”

The former England international speculated that there may be underlying tensions, such as disagreements or pressure on Maresca’s position.

“Clearly, something has occurred behind the scenes—either a dispute or he feels his job is under threat. He might believe it’s unfair given the two trophies he’s won and the points he’s earned,” Rooney added.

Maresca’s Vulnerable Position

Rooney further noted that Maresca is not the type of manager to easily retract statements once they are made. With the comments already public, the Italian coach now faces a delicate situation at Chelsea.

“I think he will struggle to receive protection from the club after making these remarks. It will be difficult for them to shield him, and that’s unfortunate,” Rooney concluded.

As Chelsea prepares for upcoming fixtures, all eyes will be on how Maresca navigates this tricky period and whether his relationship with the club’s hierarchy can remain stable amid growing scrutiny.