Chelsea, Real Betis Managers Meet Conference League Final Poland

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca and Real Betis manager Manuel Pellegrini, who face each other in the upcoming UEFA Conference League final, share a close, father-son-like relationship developed over years of collaboration. Maresca played under Pellegrini at Malaga and later served as his assistant at West Ham, describing him as a 'professional dad' and a key mentor from whom he often seeks advice. Despite their friendship and personal closeness, including living near each other in Spain and socializing outside football, both are committed to winning the final. Maresca confirmed that goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen, who played throughout the competition, will start in the final, emphasizing the importance of building a winning mentality for Chelsea. He also criticized the scheduling of fixtures, noting the unfair advantage given by extra rest to their opponents. Overall, Maresca highlighted the significance of winning a European trophy to signal progress for Chelsea while maintaining respect and warmth in his relationship with Pellegrini regardless of the match outcome.