Maresca Navigates a Tight Schedule
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca is facing a challenging task as he prepares his team to take on Leicester City at the King Power Stadium. The game marks his return to his former club and the Blues’ first outing after the November international break.
The break saw many Chelsea players away on national duty, with key figures like Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo enduring long-haul travel and intense matches. Despite this, both players are likely to feature in Maresca’s plans this weekend.
Balancing Player Fitness and Availability
Maresca acknowledged the uncertainty around players’ fitness after international duty, saying:
“For us, and for all clubs, there is always a bit of doubt because we do not know how they will come back. Some players returned from South America just this morning, so it’s not easy.”
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The squad regrouped at Cobham earlier this week, with Maresca allowing a midweek rest day before resuming preparations. While he recognizes the physical toll on players, he aims to strike a balance in his lineup.
Injury Concerns and Midfield Options
Reece James is confirmed as the only absentee for the Leicester match. Meanwhile, Romeo Lavia, who sustained a minor injury against Arsenal and missed Belgium’s international fixtures, could be available.
Maresca also has options like Renato Veiga, Cesare Casadei, and former Leicester midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall. However, he stressed that none of the players would be at peak fitness, adding:
“Renato played 180 minutes with Portugal, and Cesare had a full schedule with Italy Under-21s. When you play two games in South America and return to play immediately, even if you’re young, you’re still human and will be tired.”
Looking Ahead
Despite these challenges, Maresca is confident his team will adapt, emphasizing the need to “find the right balance.” All eyes will be on Chelsea as they aim to claim three points in what promises to be a closely contested match against the Foxes.