Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea side have made an impressive start to the new campaign, leaving many fans eager for the Blues to continue their momentum rather than enduring a two-week interruption.
After last Sunday’s 1-1 draw at home against Nottingham Forest, Chelsea will return to Premier League action on Sunday, October 20, with a thrilling match against Liverpool.
However, Maresca will be without Marc Cucurella and Wesley Fofana, both suspended for the fixture.
Chelsea fans and staff alike will be hoping for no further absences ahead of the crucial clash.
19 Chelsea players are on international duty this month, and Maresca will be praying they all return unscathed.
Meanwhile, Chelsea fan Lina offers her take on the team’s strong start to the season and previews the upcoming showdown against Liverpool next weekend at Anfield.
Chelsea have enjoyed a promising start to the new season under their new manager Enzo Maresca. What’s your general overview of the Blues so far?
Lina: Our (Chelsea) start under Enzo Maresca this season has been remarkably positive despite his initial doubts about his lack of Premier League experience. The team has shown a transformation in playing style, focusing on a tactical approach that emphasizes possession, high build-up play, and a dynamic midfield structure. This transformation has propelled Chelsea to fourth place in the league, with their performance and tactical approach clearly reflecting Maresca’s influence and philosophy
Before the season kicked off, some Chelsea supporters had reservations about Enzo Maresca’s appointment, given his limited experience at the top level as a head coach. Have you been impressed with the Italian gaffer?
Lina: Yes I’m very much impressed and happy. Despite his inexperience in the Premier League, he has made a mark with his tactical ability, shaping Chelsea’s midfield structure. Also winning Manager of the Month awards shows how good he is.
Cole Palmer has quickly emerged as a key player under Maresca’s system. His performances in September earned him the Premier League Player of the Month award, while Maresca himself was recognized as Manager of the Month. How influential will Palmer be this season for Chelsea?
Lina: Palmer is a very top player, currently the best player in the Premier League now. He’s got potential, winning the Premier League Player of the Month for September and being integral to Chelsea’s tactics under Maresca indicates his growing importance to the team. His ability to play between the lines, create chances, and score goals makes him a pivotal figure in Maresca’s system. Given his form and the system’s reliance on creative midfielders, Palmer could be one of Chelsea’s most influential players this season, potentially leading the team in assists and perhaps challenging for the top scorer spot.
After the international break, Chelsea will face a tough test as they travel to Anfield to take on Liverpool. What are the team’s chances ahead of the game and what will be your prediction?
Lina: Yeah, it’s very tough, but we’re focused on what’s ahead of us. Liverpool are one of the title contenders, so it’s not going to be easy. However, we have a great manager, so we’re definitely going to fight for a win or at least a point.
Thanks to Lina for her overview of Enzo Maresca’s impact at Chelsea so far this season. You can follow Lina on X, @CFCLina
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