“Silly mistakes changed the game” – Enzo Maresca reveals who to blame for 3-1 defeat to Manchester City
After Chelsea’s 3-1 loss to Manchester City, manager Enzo Maresca contemplated his team’s performance and development.
Although the Blues took an early lead, they were ultimately undone by missed opportunities and defensive errors; however, Maresca maintained a positive outlook on the team’s development.
According to Enzo Maresca, Chelsea lost the match due to their failure to net a second goal in the early stages and mistakes on defense.
“The game started very well for us,” Maresca told Sky Sports.
“We scored the first one and could have scored the second goal two or three times. The game would have completely changed. We missed.”
Chelsea’s defensive lapses proved costly, allowing City to equalise before halftime and take control in the second half. Maresca highlighted the pivotal moments that shifted the match. “The team was there, but in the last minutes, we conceded for 1-1. The second goal changed the game,” he said.
The Chelsea boss also addressed Robert Sanchez’s struggles, with the goalkeeper’s error leading to a key goal. “Robert is the first one [to admit] he knows he has to do better. Working hard every day [is the way to improve]. We try to have conversations with all of them,” Maresca added.
Despite the setback, Maresca emphasised the progress his team is making under his leadership. “We are making progress. We are better than one or two months ago. These moments will make us better,” he said, expressing confidence that the team will learn from their mistakes.
Chelsea’s inability to capitalise on their early lead and defensive vulnerabilities leave them with much to work on, but Maresca’s words underline his belief in the squad’s long-term improvement.