“It’s a habit from last year,” Enzo Maresca blames former Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino for defensive collapse in recent games

New Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca blamed ex-boss Mauricio Pochettino for defensive issues, stating players developed a bad habit under him.

“It’s a habit from last year,” Enzo Maresca blames former Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino for defensive collapse in recent games

Enzo Maresca (R) blamed ex-Chelsea boss Mauricio Pochettino (L) for the club's defensive woes. (via Football London)

Newly appointed Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, blamed former boss Mauricio Pochettino for recent defensive issues. He claimed that he has been trying to break a ‘habit’ the players developed under the Argentine.

The Blues sacked Mauricio Pochettino after the 2023-24 season, as they finished a disappointing sixth in the Premier League. The club also failed to secure a Champions League spot and are now vying for a Conference League spot. Moreover, Chelsea’s defensive woes have persisted, with the team conceding 12 goals in five pre-season matches so far. This has become a major concern for Enzo Maresca.

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Chelsea struggled defensively last season, conceding over 60 goals. Maresca criticized the club’s defensive strategy, particularly their high defensive line, which led to vulnerabilities. He blamed this on Pochettino, stating they inherited this ‘habit’ from the previous management. The Italian manager explained that the team is still confused about when to push up, when to drop back, and when to put pressure, especially when the opposition isn’t actively attacking.

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One of my first meetings with the squad was about the amount of goals we conceded last year with the defensive line very high. It's a habit from last year, or years ago, I don't know.
Enzo Maresca on Chelsea’s defensive woes (via BBC)

The ex-Leicester manager stated that he has been working to address the defensive problems. He acknowledged that it would take time for the team to adapt to the new system but expressed confidence in the process.

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Enzo Maresca praises £52 million Chelsea star for his performances after pre-season defeat against Real Madrid

Blues manager Enzo Maresca singled out one Chelsea star for big praise following the team’s pre-season defeat to Real Madrid. The Italian manager commended attacking midfielder Christopher Nkunku for his recent performances.

Enzo Maresca praised Nkunku
Enzo Maresca praised Christopher Nkunku for his performance against Real Madrid. (via Goal)

The 26-year-old star, who joined Chelsea last season for £52 million, has yet to make an impact in the EPL after several brilliant seasons in the Bundesliga. Impressed with Nkunku’s recent performances, the 44-year-old manager praised his versatility and creativity, while also emphasizing his ability to connect with his teammates.

For me, he played a very good game. We are trying to use him as an attacking midfielder and a striker, depending on the moment.
Enzo Maresca on Christopher Nkunku’s performance against Real Madrid (via Football London)

Nkunku is expected to play a significant role under Maresca, aiming to improve on his last season’s record of three goals in 14 matches. He most recently played in Chelsea’s 2-1 defeat to Real Madrid.

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