Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has downplayed suggestions that his side are ready to challenge for the Premier League title, despite their impressive 3-0 victory over Aston Villa on Sunday.
The Blues delivered a dominant performance at home, with Nicolas Jackson opening the scoring after just seven minutes. Enzo Fernandez doubled the lead with a precise half-volley before Cole Palmer added a late third. Chelsea could have easily extended their advantage further against Unai Emery’s struggling team.
Despite the strong display, Maresca maintained a cautious stance when asked about Chelsea’s title credentials. “I’ve said many times I don’t agree with that,” he remarked. “I think we are not ready to compete with Liverpool, Arsenal, and [Manchester] City for many reasons. Just because we won today, I’m not going to change my mind. We are not ready. But the good thing is, we are improving, and hopefully, very soon, we can be there.”
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When pressed on why Chelsea, who are statistically level with Arsenal in points, goals scored, and goals conceded, are not yet contenders, Maresca explained: “We need to improve many things. We can attack better, we can defend better. But what’s essential is experiencing key moments to grow and get better.”
Chelsea currently have the youngest team in the league, with an average age of 23.8, significantly younger than most Premier League squads. Maresca highlighted the importance of experience: “Many of these players have only played one significant final in their careers—probably the Carabao Cup last year was the biggest game they’ve experienced. To compete at the highest level, you need to live through those moments.
“Arsenal, Liverpool, and City players have been through finals and title races. That’s why they are where they are. For us, it’s a process, and we will be there soon. But right now, we’re not ready to compete with them.”