Enzo Maresca Still Refuses to Clarify His Controversial Statement Ahead of Chelsea's Cardiff Match

JAKARTA - Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca refused to clarify his comments that he did not get support at the club.

The Italian coach was asked to explain his claim after the victory over Everton on Saturday, December 13, 2025, that the previous 48 hours were the worst for him at Stamford Bridge. However, he refused to answer several questions about who was the target of his criticism.

Speaking ahead of the Carabao Cup quarter-final against Cardiff City on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, early morning WIB, he seemed impatient with repeated requests that he explain a statement that had sparked intense speculation that he was targeting the owner and Chelsea's sporting director.

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"I've spoken about it and I have nothing to add. Tomorrow is the game against Cardiff. I think I've been clear enough, no more than that."

"I respect your opinion (media). I respect the opinions of others. However, once again I have nothing to add."

"My focus is on tomorrow's game where we can reach the third semi-final in 18 months since I joined this club," he said.

The victory against Everton ended a four-game losing streak in which the team's performance level dropped significantly, especially in away defeats against Leeds United and Atalanta in the Champions League.

However, prior to Maresca's controversial comments, there was no indication that the period concerned issues in his relationship with the club.

He also reiterated that he was not referring to fans when he referred to a lack of support.

"We are in an era where everyone can say what they think. I respect the opinions of others. I have nothing to add. My focus is only on tomorrow's game."

"I said after the game that I love Chelsea supporters. They deserve the best," said Maresca.

Indeed, the last 10 weeks have brought some of the best moments of the Italian coach's tenure, including a last-minute victory against defending champions Liverpool and a stunning 3-0 win over Barcelona.

A 1-1 draw in November 2025 against leaders Arsenal, which was achieved after playing with 10 men for more than an hour, earned them deserved praise for the way Chelsea's new tough defenders defended in adversity and against.

Whatever happened in the days before the Everton game and Maresca's handling of it has given a different perspective on the season, with his refusal to provide more clarity on the reasons for not exacerbating the situation.

"Of course, yes (committed to work). I can speak Italian, Spanish, very well, and French well, and English more or less."

"I think when I want to say something, I'm pretty clear. I've already spoken after the game, I don't need to add more."

"You can try in Italian, Spanish, French so you all know. It's over. It happened after the game. Now focus on Cardiff," he said firmly.

Apart from that, Cole Palmer is not expected to appear at Cardiff City Stadium after scoring a goal against Everton. Maresca previously said that the 23-year-old player currently cannot play every three days.

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