Enzo Maresca Shares Injury Updates and Chelsea’s Game Plan Ahead of UEFA Clash and Arsenal Match

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca spoke to the press on Wednesday, just before the team’s UEFA Conference League game against Armenian side Noah on Thursday night. Chelsea have won both of their games so far in the competition, beating Gent and Panathinaikos, and are in a better position to qualify for the next stage.

Although Chelsea is the favorite to win against Noah, Maresca stated that his team will not take anything for granted and will focus on winning every match. Here are the key points from his pre-match press conference:

Updates on Injured Players

Cole Palmer

Maresca provided an update on Cole Palmer, who missed training recently. “He didn’t train yesterday, so we’ll see today if he can join us for training,” said Maresca. When asked if Palmer might be ready for Chelsea’s big game against Arsenal on Sunday, Maresca was hopeful but cautious. “We hope so, but we need to wait, see, and then decide.”

Palmer has been an important player for Chelsea this season, so his fitness for Sunday’s match will be closely watchedand much anticipated. However, Maresca is careful not to rush him back too soon.

Jadon Sancho

Maresca also talked about Jadon Sancho, who has been dealing with an illness and a knock in training. “He is out for tomorrow’s match,” Maresca confirmed, adding that they will see how he recovers for Sunday’s match against Arsenal. If not, it might be after the international break before Sancho returns to action.

Sancho’s absence could be a blow to Chelsea, as he has been showing good form lately. However, Maresca wants to make sure he is fully recovered before returning to the field.

Squad Availability

When asked if any other players were unavailable, Maresca reassured fans that most of the team is fit and ready. “Apart from those who are not involved in the squad due to injuries, the rest are all available,” he said. This is good news, as Chelsea will have a strong squad to choose from.

Will There Be Many Changes in the Lineup?

Maresca was asked if he would make many changes to the team ahead of the important match against Arsenal on Sunday. He made it clear that changes will happen regardless of the big match coming up. “We don’t make changes because of the big game on Sunday,” Maresca explained. “We have 24, 25 players, all fit and good enough to play in different competitions. That’s why we make changes.”

Maresca’s rotation strategy is because he believes in the whole squad and wants to keep players fresh for the busy schedule ahead.

Is It a Risk to Play Palmer Against Arsenal?

When asked if it would be a risk to play Palmer in the Arsenal game if he isn’t fully fit, Maresca agreed that it could be risky. “Yes, for sure,” he said. “He didn’t train the last two days. We’ll see. Hopefully, he can be fit.” Maresca also mentioned that Palmer had been on the receiving end of a tough tackle recently, saying, “The tackle, I think it’s quite clear, was not a normal one.” This could explain why Palmer has been struggling with fitness.

Maresca’s Focus on the Conference League

Maresca made it clear that, while Chelsea are favorites to win, he is not taking the game against Noah lightly. He wants to keep the momentum going in the UEFA Conference League to make sure Chelsea progress. With two wins from two games, Chelsea are in a good position, but Maresca insists they must stay focused and take every match seriously.

Preparation Ahead of Arsenal Match

After the match against Noah, Chelsea will face Arsenal in the Premier League. Maresca’s strategy of rotating players and managing their fitness will be beneficial for this big game. Chelsea fans will be hoping that Palmer and Sancho can return to action in time for the Arsenal match, but Maresca’s careful management shows that he is focused on long-term success.