Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has clarified his harsh post-match comments about Liam Delap, calling them a moment of frustration and confirming the striker has apologized to the team ahead of their clash with Tottenham.
After Delap’s red card in Chelsea’s dramatic 4–3 Carabao Cup win over Wolves, Maresca had publicly criticized the young forward, saying he was “playing the game for himself” and labeling the sending off as “embarrassing” and “stupid”. The remarks sparked debate among fans and pundits, with some questioning the manager’s approach to handling young talent.
Speaking ahead of Chelsea’s Premier League showdown with Tottenham, Maresca sought to clarify his stance:
> “I spoke with Liam, he knows everything, he's aware of the situation, he knows that he made a mistake. Full stop,” Maresca said. “He apologized to the team, and we move forward together”.
Delap, who had just returned from a two-month hamstring injury, was sent off after receiving two yellow cards within seven minutes of coming on as a substitute. His dismissal marked Chelsea’s sixth red card in nine matches, raising concerns about discipline within the squad.
Maresca acknowledged the emotional nature of his initial comments and emphasized that Delap remains part of his plans:
> “It was a heat-of-the-moment reaction. Liam is a fantastic player and he’ll learn from this. We’re not throwing anyone under the bus.”
Chelsea will need composure and focus as they prepare to face a resurgent Tottenham side. With Delap suspended, Maresca is expected to rely on Nicolas Jackson and Cole Palmer to lead the attack.
The manager also hinted at tactical adjustments to reduce disciplinary issues, stating, “We’ve had too many red cards. It’s something we’re addressing internally.”
Chelsea currently sit sixth in the Premier League table, and a win against Spurs could reignite their push for a top-four finish.
Sources:
Straits Times
Sports Mole
Metro
Betzoid
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