Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca mentioned he feels honored if his squad is viewed as a reflection of his own character despite facing disciplinary challenges.
This season, Chelsea has incurred seven red cards, including one for Maresca, who will face his second touchline suspension of the season while playing against Aston Villa on Saturday due to a collection of yellow cards.
Some costly send-offs have also involved Trevoh Chalobah and Robert Sánchez in losses against Brighton and Manchester United respectively, while Malo Gusto, João Pedro, and Liam Delap have also been handed suspensions.
Moises Caicedo’s three-match suspension for his red card against Arsenal in November marked a significant drop in Chelsea’s performance since their midfield lacked one of their standout players this season.
The team’s disciplinary problems persisted during Saturday’s 2-2 draw against Newcastle when Sanchez received a yellow card within seven minutes for vehemently objecting to a call against his side, followed by Maresca receiving his third warning of the season, leading to a suspension.
The Italian has been vocally supportive of his team throughout the challenging last month.
«Earlier today, the club shared a comment from [the media] stating the team mirrors the manager,» Maresca stated. «I’m truly proud of that, especially given the performance of the team, which is the youngest in the Premier League. We must permit them some errors as part of their development.
«Indeed, we have yellow cards, and yes, we have accumulated some red cards, but I prefer to analyze various circumstances.»
Aston Villa, their upcoming opponents, have claimed 11 victories in their last 12 league games and achieved 10 consecutive wins in all competitions, rising to third place and displaying impressive consistency after a shaky start.
Unai Emery’s squad struggled at the beginning of the season, failing to secure a win in their initial five league matches, not scoring until the 67th minute of their fifth game against Sunderland, although their subsequent form has been nothing short of sensational.
In contrast, Maresca’s team has experienced a rollercoaster journey, impressing in wins over Liverpool and Barcelona, while suffering home defeats against Sunderland and conceding heavily at Leeds.
«[Consistency] is one of our next objectives,» Maresca noted. «Winning 10 straight in the Premier League is a steep challenge.»
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Maresca disclosed that his rapport with captain Reece James is thriving, highlighted by a Christmas gift he received from his captain.
«The last gift is always the one that sticks with you. Reece sent me a fine bottle of wine [on Tuesday].»
Nonetheless, the England international still has a way to go to match the stature of Maresca’s all-time favorite from his coaching career.
«I genuinely believe that one of the finest strikers in England is Jamie Vardy,» Maresca remarked, having coached Vardy for a season at Leicester.
«I think Jamie is an exceptional player and an even better person. He has a generous spirit.»
