Chelsea Manager Maresca Criticizes Players Amid Rising Red Card Issue

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca is under pressure following a mixed start to the 2025-26 season, with Chelsea currently sitting ninth in the Premier League despite last season's successes, including winning the Club World Cup and Conference League. Juventus expressed interest in Maresca, but Chelsea have no intention of making a mid-season managerial change and remain confident in his focus and leadership. However, Chelsea's discipline issues have become a significant concern, as the team has accumulated five red cards in their last nine matches, with recent incidents involving striker Liam Delap drawing sharp criticism from Maresca, who described Delap's conduct as "embarrassing" and "selfish." Maresca has publicly reprimanded players for poor discipline, emphasizing the need for composure, while also acknowledging that tactical challenges have increased as opponents frequently deploy five-defender formations, forcing Chelsea to adjust their game plans. Despite these difficulties, Maresca continues to advocate for improvement and adaptation as Chelsea strive to regain momentum and meet high expectations.