The winds of change are blowing through Stamford Bridge, and Enzo Maresca is making it clear — only the committed will stay.
Chelsea head coach isn’t wasting time setting the tone for the new era.
After the Blues’ 2-1 win over Palmeiras in the Club World Cup, Maresca sent a strong message to his squad: loyalty isn’t optional.
The match itself brought a mix of joy and curiosity. While Malo Gusto’s late deflected winner secured Chelsea’s semi-final spot, the buzz off the pitch was all about Noni Madueke.
The winger, who came off the bench, is now facing growing interest from Arsenal. Reports (via The Mirror) say Chelsea have slapped a £50 million price tag on him.
But when Maresca was asked about Madueke’s future, he didn’t name names. Instead, he gave a message meant for every player in blue.
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Enzo Maresca sends strong message to Chelsea players
“Noni has been very important for us during this season,” Maresca said after the match.
“Today, again, he has been important. But my message to the players and to the club is that I want just players that are happy to be with us. The ones that are not happy, they are free to go.”
A subtle nutmeg of a comment — direct and impossible to ignore. Whether it’s Madueke, someone else, or all of the above, the message is the same: Chelsea’s door swings both ways this summer.
Maresca’s no-nonsense approach comes as new signings arrive at Cobham. Joao Pedro impressed on debut. Estevao Willian had a dream outing — scoring against the club he’ll soon join.
And Jamie Gittens, freshly signed from Dortmund, was already soaking up the pre-season vibes in Philadelphia.
Maresca knows this squad is changing fast. And he’s drawing a line early. If players don’t see themselves wearing Chelsea blue with pride, they won’t be forced to.
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