Enzo Maresca Issues Strong Warning to Mikel Arteta: "Chelsea Ready for Battle Against Arsenal After Last Season's Humiliation"

Ahead of their eagerly awaited match at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has sent a daring message to Mikel Arteta and his Arsenal team. After a humiliating 5-0 loss in the last match, Maresca cautions that this time will be different. Chelsea hopes to show that they are no longer a team that will “roll over” for anyone with a strengthened squad and renewed resolve.

This forthcoming game is an opportunity for Maresca to show Chelsea’s strength under his leadership, not merely for revenge. “We’re not here to back down,” he declared. “We feel like we can compete and win against any team. This match is our chance to show that we’re moving in the right direction, and we’re ready to go to war.”

Since taking over in the summer, Maresca has faced the challenge of reshaping Chelsea after a turbulent season. Despite setbacks this year with tough losses to Manchester City and Liverpool, and a recent draw against Manchester United, he remains confident that Chelsea can handle any opponent—including Arsenal, one of England’s strongest clubs.

“We’re not the same team as before,” Maresca said, addressing Arsenal’s previous victory. “The feeling around here is different now. We have the belief that we can compete, and we’re ready to push any team to their limit.”

Maresca, who previously worked under Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, is well-versed in what it takes to compete with big teams. While he recognizes the quality that Arteta has brought to Arsenal, he’s confident that Chelsea’s preparation and commitment will make this a very different match.

“We didn’t deserve to lose to Liverpool. Against City, we showed we can keep up with the best. It’s just a matter of time until we get a big win. Hopefully, that comes against Arsenal,” Maresca explained.

Chelsea’s lineup for Sunday could get a boost with the potential return of their 22-year-old star, Cole Palmer, who’s been recovering from injury. Maresca confirmed that Palmer is making progress and hinted he could make the lineup if he’s fit enough by the weekend.

“We’re doing everything we can to be at our best, including hoping to have Palmer back,” Maresca added. “Whether he plays or not, we’re going into this game prepared.”

“We’re going to make things difficult for them, especially in set-pieces where Arsenal are strong,” Maresca remarked. “That last game was tough, but this time, we’re ready to fight back and make this a game Arsenal won’t forget.”

Maresca’s message is clear: Chelsea is no longer a team that can be easily dismissed. He’s fully aware that Arsenal’s consistency and strength are a result of Arteta’s long-term work with the squad, but he’s confident that Chelsea is building toward that level of stability and success.

“We’re getting there,” he concluded. “Whether it’s Sunday or the next match, we’re going to make our mark. We’re not here to be pushed aside.”