Enzo Maresca is set for perhaps the toughest test of his early Chelsea tenure this Sunday, as the Blues take on league leaders Liverpool at Anfield.
Ahead of the high-stakes encounter, Maresca shared some tactical insights into how his side will approach the game.
Chelsea currently sit fourth in the Premier League, with 14 points from a possible 21, remaining unbeaten since their opening-day defeat.
Meanwhile, Liverpool, under the stewardship of Arne Slot, are leading the early title race.
Maresca’s appointment raised eyebrows in the summer, but the 44-year-old has swiftly silenced doubters.
Reflecting on his decision to take the Chelsea job, Maresca said he had no hesitation, fully embracing the challenge.
His approach seems to be paying off – he was recently named Premier League Manager of the Month for September.
Club legend Gianfranco Zola has expressed his admiration for the Italian’s impact but also cautioned that this season will present formidable challenges.
This weekend’s clash with Liverpool is set to be one of those challenges.
Chelsea have struggled in recent meetings with the Reds, failing to win any of their last nine encounters and last tasting victory at Anfield in 2021.
To turn the tide, Enzo Maresca will need key performances from players like Cole Palmer, Noni Madueke, and Nicolas Jackson.
Speaking ahead of the fixture, Maresca offered a glimpse into his tactical mindset, indicating that his team will be well-prepared for Liverpool’s attacking threat while aiming to assert their own style.
“Absolutely. As you said it’s a nice environment. Anfield is fantastic, but we’re going to try and go there, play our football and try to get points,” he told the Stadium Astro YouTube channel.
“We try always.
“As I said sometimes we plan the game but also the other team plan the game, so sometimes you struggle a little bit more, sometimes not.
“But in the end it’s important, the intention of the team has to be the same.”
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