Maresca cancels Chelsea day off after senior squad loses 3-0 to Under-21s

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has downplayed the significance of the first team losing 3-0 to an Under-21 side, which prompted him to cancel a scheduled day off for the players. Following recent poor performances, including three defeats in five league matches, Maresca emphasized the need for 'high standards' in training. The loss, which featured teenager Donnell McNeilly scoring twice, was described by Maresca as a training exercise rather than a cause for alarm. Key players Cole Palmer, Noni Madueke, and Nicolas Jackson are returning from injury ahead of the crucial match against Tottenham, where a win is essential for Chelsea to maintain their Champions League ambitions. Maresca's insistence on high performance reflects the growing pressure on his management amid shifting expectations from fans. The upcoming game will be pivotal for not only Chelsea's standings but also for Maresca's relationship with supporters who are becoming increasingly restless with the team's current form.