“Don’t blame Enzo Maresca for Chelsea poor run” “They’re to be blame” – Gary Neville reveals who to blame for Chelsea poor form
Chelsea’s struggles this season have led to increased scrutiny on head coach Enzo Maresca, but former Manchester United defender Gary Neville believes the blame should be placed elsewhere—on those responsible for player recruitment.
Speaking on Sky Sports following Chelsea’s 3-0 defeat to Brighton, Neville criticized the club’s transfer strategy, arguing that despite spending over £1 billion, key positions such as centre-forward and goalkeeper remain glaring weaknesse
“The pressure should be on the people who are recruiting the players. To leave out of a billion pounds, positions like centre-forward and goalkeeper so weak – is unforgivable,” Neville said
While Maresca has faced criticism for Chelsea’s performances, Neville insists that the Italian manager is being forced to work with an imbalanced squad, making his job significantly more difficult.
“The pressure shouldn’t be on the coach – at all, in any way, shape or form. You cannot play football very well – it’s very difficult to play football without centre-forwards and without a goalkeeper that can keep the ball out of the back of the net.”
Chelsea’s failure to sign a proven striker and an elite goalkeeper has left them struggling in key moments this season. With Filip Jorgensen and Robert Sanchez sharing goalkeeping duties and Nicolas Jackson leading the line in attack, the team has lacked the firepower and defensive stability needed to challenge at the top.
Neville’s comments will add to the growing criticism of sporting directors Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart, who have overseen Chelsea’s recruitment since 2023. Many fans have already questioned their decision-making, and with Chelsea slipping down the table, pressure is mounting on the club’s hierarchy to address their mistakes.
As the season progresses, it remains to be seen whether Chelsea’s decision-makers will take responsibility and make the necessary improvements to ensure the club can compete at the highest level once again.