Chelsea manager, Enzo Maresca has addressed the media ahead of Tuesday night’s UEFA Champions League clash with Benfica at Stamford Bridge (20:00 BST).
The fixture looks to produce a dramatic and emotional night marked as Jose Mourinho returns to his old stomping ground.
The Italian tactician provided injury updates, reflected on the club’s recent form, and spoke respectfully about facing one of Chelsea’s most iconic managers.
“Moises Caicedo, Joao Pedro and Andrey Santos all have small problems,” Maresca revealed.
“They will be assessed this afternoon to see whether they can be available.”
Maresca also analyzed the need to balance priorities between Europe and the Premier League:
“We want to maintain a high-level team for the Champions League, but we have many players out and also play Liverpool at the weekend.”
‘It’s a Privilege’ – Enzo Maresca on Facing Mourinho
Jose Mourinho’s presence will inevitably dominate the atmosphere at Stamford Bridge.
The Portuguese coach, now at Benfica, remains a beloved figure in West London, having delivered unprecedented success during his two spells at the club (2004–2007 & 2013–2015).
“It’s a privilege to come up against Jose Mourinho,” Maresca said.
“He is a legend for this club.”
Maresca acknowledged that Benfica’s recent managerial change adds an element of unpredictability:
“It’s probably a little bit more difficult because all the games I have watched are with the former manager.”
“It will be a completely different game compared to the Club World Cup game.”
The Chelsea boss also admitted he dreams of emulating Mourinho’s achievements:
“I would like to achieve Premier League and Champions League success that Mourinho did at Chelsea one day, and to enjoy these kinds of moments together.”
‘No Reason to Panic’ Despite Mixed Form – Maresca
Chelsea’s post-international break period has been rocky, with just one win in five matches, a narrow victory over Lincoln City followed by a 3-1 defeat to Brighton at the weekend.
However, Maresca downplayed any crisis talk:
“There is no reason to be negative about the last six months because we have only lost five games in all competitions and four of those have been when the Blues were down to 10 men.”
He also took responsibility for recent disciplinary lapses:
“After a review of the last two games, I should have done better in terms of decisions, but it is a learning process.”
“There is no reason we need to create panic. Compared to last season, we have all improved. Learning to play with 10 players is something I need to do better.”
Mourinho’s aura at Stamford Bridge remains unmatched, and fans still sing his name passionately. When asked about this, Maresca responded thoughtfully:
“I would like it one day for sure, but it is not my target.”
“They have chanted ‘we have our Chelsea back’ before, and if they can sing that then I am already happy.”
Injuries, Discipline and Job Security
Maresca met with Chelsea’s four sporting directors and co-owner Behdad Eghbali over the weekend.
The meeting was described as routine, with discussions focusing on injuries and red cards that have affected recent results.Despite the recent dip, his job is not under immediate threat.
The hierarchy believes he can secure Champions League qualification, with any managerial appraisal set for the end of the season. Maresca is confident of continuing for at least seven more months.
Fixture Congestion and Player Workload Under Fire
Adding to Chelsea’s pre-match narrative, a FIFPro report released Monday highlighted the alarming workload of top players, with major clubs including Chelsea failing to give stars the recommended 28 days of rest between seasons.
Chelsea’s squad had only 20 days off after last season, followed by a 13-day pre-season, well below the suggested recovery window.
A Night Steeped in History
Tuesday’s clash against Benfica is more than just a Champions League group game. It’s a night where the past meets the present..
While Mourinho will undoubtedly command the spotlight, Maresca has a chance to make a statement of his own against a tricky opponent and reignite Chelsea’s momentum.
