Enzo Maresca's update on seven Chelsea players as he drops big Cole Palmer hint

5 days ago 7

Enzo Maresca's press conference ahead of Chelsea's match against Leeds covered several injury updates, the approach to the game and the tactical challenge posed by the opponent

15:26, 02 Dec 2025Updated 15:27, 02 Dec 2025

Cole Palmer: Is available for the match and can start. The plan is to start giving him minutes until he is fit enough to play the full 90.
Reece James: Maresca would like him to start but needs to "do the right thing" and protect him, indicating he may not be in the starting lineup. He also noted that James can play effectively as both a full-back and a midfielder, depending on the game plan and the need for physicality in the middle.
Moises Caicedo: Is banned for three games, and Maresca acknowledged that the team is better with him, but they must find a solution to replace him.
Andrey Santos: Was confirmed to be "ready" to step up and play in the No. 6 position (Caicedo's role).
Robert Sanchez: Maresca noted that he has been good at saving but "struggled a little bit" with the build-up. However, he sees improvement, particularly in the recent game against Arsenal.
Other Injuries: Romeo Lavia is still trying to recover. Dario Essugo had to slow down after starting some sessions and will be out again, though hopefully not for long.

Importance of the Match: Maresca stressed that every game, including those against Leeds and Bournemouth, is worth three points and must be treated with the same seriousness as matches against major clubs like Barcelona and Arsenal.
Tactical Doubt: His main concern regarding Leeds is the formation they will use, as manager Daniel Farke has historically favored a back four but recently used a back five against Manchester City. Maresca confirmed the team is preparing for both possibilities.
Challenge of Away Games: He acknowledged that both the Leeds and Bournemouth matches, especially away from home, will be difficult for Chelsea.
Team Running Distance: Maresca explained that the stat showing Chelsea players cover less distance against lower-ranked sides is likely due to the opponent's tactics. If teams sit back, there is less space to run into compared to when they employ a high press.