Chelsea's Maresca Defends Loan Strategy Amid Criticism

Enzo Maresca, Chelsea's manager, defends his decision to loan Joao Felix to AC Milan despite Chelsea's exit from the FA Cup and injuries to key strikers Nicolas Jackson and Marc Guiu. Maresca remains confident in his squad's ability to compete in the Premier League and UEFA Conference League, acknowledging the need for more attacking options and hinting at strengthening the forward line in the summer transfer window. He also stated that new signing Mathis Amougou is unlikely to see much playing time this season, focusing instead on his development. Despite not strengthening the squad in January, Maresca is optimistic about the return of injured players like Reece James and Wesley Fofana. The Chelsea hierarchy accepted the current squad depth, but Maresca's recent comments suggest a strategic reassessment may occur by summer.