Chelsea
October 2025
Second-half changes flip control as Acheampong heads the opener, Neto adds a quick free-kick, and Reece James seals it. Forest waste key chances through Gibbs-White, Williams and Igor before a late red for Gusto. Maresca’s subs shift tempo and width, exploiting Forest’s transitions. Chelsea bank consecutive league wins despite midfield absences, tightening structure ahead of a tougher run.
Chelsea
September 2025
Chelsea’s owners, including Behdad Eghbali, entered the dressing room after a 3-1 collapse to Brighton, sparking speculation. The Blues had led through Enzo Fernández before Danny Welbeck’s brace and Maxim De Cuyper’s late strike turned the game upside down. Maresca dismissed concerns, saying the owners regularly visit post-match and did not address players. Despite his calm, the defeat piled pressure on Chelsea, who once again squandered control and collapsed defensively, leaving questions about resilience and tactical cohesion.
Raheem Sterling
September 2025
Bayern Munich attempted a late summer swoop for Raheem Sterling, but the Chelsea forward rejected the chance, citing family priorities in London. The rejection left him stuck in Enzo Maresca’s “bomb squad,” training away from the first team until January. Sterling, earning a place among Chelsea’s unwanted, prioritized stability for his family over silverware abroad. Bayern’s approach highlighted Kompany’s desire to reunite with his ex-Manchester City teammate, but Sterling’s refusal leaves him sidelined with limited prospects until the winter transfer window.
Enzo Maresca (Chelsea)
September 2025
Enzo Maresca denied leaving Alejandro Garnacho on the bench against Manchester United due to boos from home fans, instead citing an enforced change after Wesley Fofana requested substitution during Chelsea’s 2-1 loss. Garnacho, signed from United this summer for £40m, was preparing to enter but was blocked by injury substitutions. Maresca insisted he had every intention of using the winger despite the hostile reception at Old Trafford, dismissing speculation about crowd influence.
Dário Essugo (Chelsea/Portugal U21)
September 2025
Summer signing Dário Essugo sustained a thigh injury with Portugal U21s and has undergone surgery. He’s expected out roughly three months, potentially into early 2026, after three Club World Cup appearances since his £18.5m move from Sporting. Essugo was intended cover to ease Moisés Caicedo’s workload. Enzo Maresca must now redistribute minutes—think Gallagher deeper, Lavia ramp-up, or academy promotion—while January midfield planning gains urgency if setbacks occur. Squad balance takes a short-term hit.
Joao Pedro (Chelsea)
September 2025
Chelsea forward Joao Pedro revealed his dream of winning the Ballon d’Or after scoring five goals in his first five starts, while explaining why he turned down Newcastle’s £50m bid in favour of Stamford Bridge. Pedro prioritised Chelsea’s project under Maresca over Newcastle’s pitch to partner Isak. He has already impressed with goals in the Premier League and Club World Cup, stating his short-term target is the Golden Boot before chasing global recognition.
Nicolas Jackson (Chelsea)
August 2025
Nicolas Jackson’s agent says the striker could leave Chelsea this summer, with Bayern Munich favourites after reportedly agreeing personal terms. The 24-year-old has been linked with multiple suitors after two seasons as the Blues’ main centre-forward. Chelsea want a high fee, but Bayern prefer a loan with buy option. Jackson, surplus under Maresca following arrivals of Pedro and Delap, now weighs several options as his agent confirms a decision is imminent with the window nearing its end.
Renato Veiga (Chelsea)
August 2025
Villarreal agreed a €30m deal with Chelsea to sign Renato Veiga, marking their club-record transfer. The defender, unsettled since moving from Basel in 2024, struggled for minutes and was loaned to Juventus. Chelsea included a sell-on clause in the transfer package. Despite Colwill’s long-term injury, Maresca made clear Veiga wasn’t in his plans. Villarreal seized the chance, with Veiga’s agents pushing for a move. He is now set for unveiling as the Spanish side’s most expensive signing, aiming for a fresh career revival.
Estevao Willian (Chelsea)
August 2025
Estevao Willian caught attention on his Premier League debut for Chelsea, coming on in the second half against Crystal Palace. The Brazilian teenager showed flair, pace, and trickery, earning praise from manager Enzo Maresca who predicted he will become an important player. Signed from Palmeiras, Estevao showcased confidence and energy, unsettling Palace defenders with bursts down the right flank. Maresca highlighted his personality and potential, comparing him to Cole Palmer’s rise, while stressing the youngster still needs time to adapt fully to English football.