"We’re Not Ready Yet" – Enzo Maresca replies Jamie Carragher Over claim the Chelsea boss is deceiving everyone on Chelsea’s Title Chances

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has responded to Jamie Carragher’s recent claim that he is “deceiving everyone” when playing down Chelsea’s chances of competing for the Premier League title this season. Carragher’s remarks stirred up debate after he suggested that Chelsea’s manager was intentionally deflecting expectations, given the club’s spending power and squad depth.

Maresca, however, remains firm in his stance. The Italian tactician has been realistic about Chelsea’s current status, stating that the team is still in a transitional phase and not yet ready to challenge for England’s most prestigious football honor. Speaking after Chelsea’s recent performances, Maresca emphasized that while the club has ambitions for the top, it lacks the crucial ingredients required to mount a serious title challenge right now.

When asked about Carragher’s criticism, Maresca didn’t hold back. He reiterated his belief that Chelsea is still in the process of building a winning mentality and developing consistency. For Maresca, the Premier League title race is about more than just having talented players—it’s about creating an environment where success can be “felt” and “smelled” on the pitch and in the dressing room.

“You can smell that, you can feel that – and that is probably why I said we are not ready because we don’t feel that and we don’t smell that at this moment,” Maresca said. “Hopefully soon we can be there, but at this moment, I think that is one of the reasons why we are not there.”

Enzo Maresca has played down Chelsea's chances of challenging for the Premier League title:

"You can smell that, you can feel that – and that is probably why I said we are not ready because we don't feel that and we don't smell that at this moment. Hopefully soon we can be… pic.twitter.com/wFm9b39ZgP

— Chelsea Dodgers (@TheBlueDodger) December 13, 2024

This response was seen as a subtle but firm rebuttal to Carragher’s comments, with Maresca making it clear that he’s focused on Chelsea’s progress rather than external opinions.

Carragher had earlier argued that Maresca might be underselling Chelsea’s chances to reduce the pressure on his squad. The former Liverpool defender pointed out that Chelsea’s significant investment in players, coupled with the wealth of talent at their disposal, means they should already be competing at the top level.

“Chelsea has spent more money than any club in the world over the past two years. They’ve got a squad packed with young and experienced talent. For Maresca to say they’re not in the title race feels like he’s deceiving everyone,” Carragher said during a recent punditry segment.

However, many have defended Maresca’s approach, suggesting that the manager is simply being realistic given the challenges Chelsea has faced in recent years, including squad overhauls and managerial changes.

Maresca’s point is underscored by Chelsea’s inconsistent performances this season. While the team has shown flashes of brilliance, they’ve also struggled in key moments, dropping points in matches they were expected to win.

The Blues have been plagued by issues such as a lack of clinical finishing, defensive lapses, and the challenge of integrating new signings into the squad. These factors have contributed to their inability to string together a series of commanding performances, which is essential for any team aspiring to win the Premier League.

Maresca is focused on addressing these issues, but he knows it will take time for Chelsea to develop the kind of consistency and resilience needed to compete with the likes of Manchester City, Arsenal, and Liverpool.

For Maresca, the key to success lies in building a winning mentality. He believes that this intangible quality is what separates great teams from good ones. While Chelsea has a talented squad, the players need to develop the confidence and belief required to dominate games and overcome challenges.

“We have the talent, no doubt,” Maresca explained. “But talent alone isn’t enough. You need to feel like a champion, to think like a champion. That’s what we’re working on.”

This mindset has been a hallmark of all title-winning teams, and Maresca is determined to instill it in his players.

Despite his realistic assessment, Maresca remains optimistic about Chelsea’s future. The club has invested heavily in young talents like Enzo Fernández, Moisés Caicedo, and Cole Palmer, who are expected to play pivotal roles in the team’s development.

Maresca also believes that the team’s struggles this season could serve as valuable learning experiences, helping the players grow and mature. He’s confident that Chelsea will eventually become a team capable of challenging for major honors, but he’s not putting a timeline on it.