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Enzo Maresca sparked controversy last weekend with comments following Chelsea's Premier League win over Everton
Enzo Maresca has been urged to speak the truth or say nothing at all by former Chelsea defender Frank Leboeuf, after the manager had a public outburst following last weekend's win over Everton.
Despite his side securing a 2-0 victory against the Toffees, the Italian coach expressed in his post-match press conference that the days leading up to the game had been his "worst 48 hours" at Stamford Bridge. He did not elaborate any further on who the comments were aimed at.
Understandably, speculation followed, with suggestions they were directed at Chelsea's owners and sporting directors. When asked to clarify his remarks a few days later ahead of the Carabao Cup quarter-final against Cardiff City, Maresca became impatient and emphasised that he had nothing further to add on the topic.
Leboeuf, who spent five years at Chelsea between 1996 and 2001, winning five trophies in that time, has shared his views on the manager's bombshell comments, as well as his insistence on not explaining himself any further. The former defender believes the current situation should not detract from the club's pressing need to qualify for the Champions League next season.
"It's maybe the first time after two losses and one draw he felt the pressure and to come out with that, and to say even worse," Leboeuf told football.london via ToonieBet. "Before the game against Cardiff, he said, 'I was really clear about the situation.'
"No, you weren't, we didn't understand a word of what you were saying because we don't understand who you are targeting, who was targeting you. Say the truth or say nothing.
"Yes, it's hard to be the coach of Chelsea Football Club. Yes, you are doing okay, but can we say that sometimes I don't understand you, and that's how I feel.
"I love that club, I think the coach is doing the best he can, but don't come out with those kind of comments because we don't get it, except that we understand that you are under big pressure, which is absolutely normal, being the coach of Chelsea Football Club and losing two games and drawing one after what we saw against Arsenal.
"No big deal, let's forget about it because I think it doesn't mean anything and keep on working and make sure that Chelsea is gonna qualify for the Champions League next season."
Maresca's side are back in action this weekend with a tricky test away at Newcastle. Then, after Christmas, they host Aston Villa in what will no doubt be another difficult encounter.
The Blues are currently fourth in the Premier League standings, but recent results - which include two draws and a defeat - have allowed those around them to close the gap. Sunderland, Liverpool, Manchester United and Crystal Palace are all just two points behind as things stand.
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