Maresca seeks answers as Chelsea repeatedly squanders leads, losing crucial points from winning positions. Control and management slip away.
Chelsea FC manager Enzo Maresca, an Italian, acknowledged his concern ahead of Tuesday's match against AFC Bournemouth for the Premier League's 19th matchday, following the 2-1 loss to Aston Villa in the tournament's 18th round.
"It's only a matter of understanding why," Maresca stated at a press conference two days after the defeat to Aston Villa. This match marked the third time this season Chelsea lost at Stamford Bridge after being ahead.
"When something happens repeatedly, it is not a coincidence. We need to understand why. Regardless of whether we win, draw, or lose, conceding a goal means we lose a bit of control. These situations must be managed better," Maresca emphasized.
Chelsea, which, with Maresca, won the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup and the fourth edition of the UEFA Conference League, has lost 11 points after being ahead in home matches this season.
That exact number of points is what separates Chelsea (fifth with 29 points) from Manchester City FC (40), the runner-up to the sole leader, Arsenal FC (42), which also tomorrow will host none other than Aston Villa (39).
"Not many teams generate as many chances against Aston Villa, while they didn't create any in the first half. Honestly, the result does not reflect the 10-point difference with them," Maresca considered.
What Happened in Chelsea's Latest Game?
Aston Villa secured a key win in London by defeating Chelsea 2-1 on the road, a result that allowed it to equal a historic record of 11 consecutive victories – a mark it had not reached since 1914 – and remain firm in the race for the Premier League title.
The home side had taken the lead in the first half with a goal from Brazilian Joao Pedro, who deflected the ball in the six-yard box after a corner kick and a failed reaction from Argentine goalkeeper Emiliano "Dibu" Martinez.
The victory at Stamford Bridge took Aston Villa to 39 points, placing it third in the table and just three points behind leader Arsenal, whom it will face in the next matchday in a key clash for the top.
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