Maresca defends Chelsea's season as improvement amid criticism

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has defended his first season in charge, asserting that the campaign represents clear progress compared to the club’s previous two years. Despite criticism from fans over conservative tactics and inconsistent form, Maresca emphasized that Chelsea has spent much of the season in Champions League qualification positions—a marked improvement over finishing 12th and sixth in the past two seasons. He acknowledged recent setbacks and the challenge of securing a top five Premier League finish amid stiff competition but insisted the team is moving in the right direction. Maresca also addressed fan frustration, attributing it to high expectations after significant investment in the squad, but maintained that the obligation remains to return Chelsea to its former heights. While the club faces a difficult run-in, Maresca reiterated his belief in ongoing progress and the importance of perspective when judging the season’s outcome.