Chelsea’s Maresca: Defence is the Secret Weapon Behind Title Push
When you think of Chelsea this season, it’s easy to get caught up in the fireworks of their attacking play. After all, their thrilling 4-3 comeback win over Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday was a masterclass in offensive resilience. But according to manager Enzo Maresca, the real key to Chelsea’s surprising Premier League title push isn’t just about scoring goals—it’s about defending.
“You’re not going to win games or titles by just scoring goals, you need to defend,” Maresca told reporters ahead of Chelsea’s Europa Conference League clash with Astana. And while conceding three goals against Spurs might not scream defensive solidity, the numbers back up Maresca’s claim. Chelsea have allowed just 18 goals in 15 matches this season, a record bettered only by league leaders Liverpool (11) and third-placed Arsenal (15).
Defensive Stats That Speak Volumes
Let’s break it down. Chelsea currently sit second in the Premier League standings with 31 points, trailing only Liverpool. Their defensive record has been a cornerstone of their success, even as their attack grabs the headlines. Maresca’s emphasis on balance—scoring goals while staying tight at the back—has been a revelation for a team that many didn’t peg as title contenders at the start of the season.
“Even after conceding three goals against Spurs, there are just two clubs that have conceded less than us, so that means also defensively we are doing quite well,” Maresca pointed out. And he’s right. While Chelsea’s attacking flair has stolen the spotlight, their ability to keep things relatively tight at the back has been just as crucial.
Focus on the Present, Not the Future
Despite their strong position, Maresca is keeping his feet firmly on the ground. The Italian manager has been quick to temper expectations, urging his players and fans to focus on the here and now rather than getting carried away with title talk.
“It’s not about ambition. I am quite ambitious, and the players and the club are ambitious, but in my opinion, if you think about things in four or five months, then you can lose a bit of focus on the now,” he said. It’s a pragmatic approach, and one that seems to be working wonders for Chelsea so far.
Young Talent Ready to Shine
As Chelsea prepare for their Europa Conference League match against Astana, Maresca is set to give some of the club’s younger players a chance to shine. One name to watch is 18-year-old defender Josh Acheampong, who is likely to make his first start for the team. With an eight-hour flight to Kazakhstan on the cards, Maresca is planning to leave some of his regular starters behind to rest and recover.
“We have many young players with us, and the rest are going to be here working,” Maresca explained. “Eight hours is not a normal time [to travel] for a game. We have to go there. We have to play, and we are going to try and do our best while also thinking about the next game.”
What’s Next for Chelsea?
After their trip to Kazakhstan, Chelsea will turn their attention back to the Premier League, where they face Brentford on Sunday. With their current form, both domestically and in Europe, the Blues are riding high. They’re also sitting pretty in the Conference League, topping their group with four wins in a row. But as Maresca has made clear, the focus remains on taking things one game at a time.
Key Takeaways
- Chelsea are second in the Premier League standings with 31 points.
- They’ve conceded just 18 goals in 15 matches, behind only Liverpool (11) and Arsenal (15).
- Manager Enzo Maresca credits their defensive efforts as the foundation of their success.
- 18-year-old Josh Acheampong is set to make his first start in the Europa Conference League.
- Chelsea face Brentford in their next Premier League match on Sunday.
So, are Chelsea genuine title contenders? Maresca might not want to admit it just yet, but the numbers—and their performances—are starting to make a strong case. With a balanced approach and a focus on the present, the Blues are proving that they’re more than just a surprise package this season. Whether they can sustain this form remains to be seen, but one thing’s for sure: Chelsea are a team to watch.
Originally Written by: N/A
