- Blues suffer 1-0 loss to Arsenal, intensifying fan frustration
- Concerns grow over Maresca’s tactics and lack of attacking threat
- Injuries to key players continue to hamper Chelsea’s form
Chelsea’s faith in manager Enzo Maresca remains steadfast despite their 1-0 defeat to Arsenal on Sunday, according to reports.
Once considered outside contenders for the Premier League title in December, Chelsea’s struggles have seen them slip into a battle for a top-four finish. The loss at the Emirates leaves the Blues in fourth place, but Newcastle United, just two points behind, have a game in hand.
While a defeat to an in-form Arsenal side was not unexpected, frustration among Chelsea fans continues to grow. Maresca’s side controlled 59% possession but registered an expected goals (xG) of just 0.36—the lowest in his tenure so far. Mikel Arteta’s recent praise of Chelsea as the league’s best attacking side has only added to the disconnect between the club’s ambitions and the fanbase’s perception.
Chelsea have now won only four of their last 13 league games, with those victories coming against teams in the bottom five. Despite this, BBC Sport reports that club ownership remains fully behind Maresca.
Unlike last season under Mauricio Pochettino, there are no divisions within the club’s hierarchy regarding the manager’s future. Key decision-makers continue to back Maresca, believing he is the right man to lead Chelsea forward.
Co-owner Jonathan Goldstein echoed this sentiment in February, firmly stating that Maresca would remain in charge for the rest of the season.
Club officials also point to the impact of injuries on the team’s decline. The absence of key attackers like Nicolas Jackson and Noni Madueke has significantly affected performances, and Maresca himself emphasized how losing two of his three top scorers has been a “huge difference.” Now, with leading goal-getter Cole Palmer also set for a spell on the sidelines, Chelsea’s challenges continue to mount.