By SAM LAWLEY
Published: 09:28 EST, 6 December 2024 | Updated: 09:33 EST, 6 December 2024
Enzo Maresca has claimed that his Chelsea side are 'ahead of his expectations' in their development as a team but still insists the Blues are not in the title race.
The Italian took over at Stamford Bridge from Mauricio Pochettino in the summer after the west London side slipped to a disappointing sixth-placed finish last season.
A summer of chaos ensued with a number of high-profile arrivals and departures as well as a host of players, including the likes of Conor Gallagher, being placed in a 'bomb squad' as Maresca looked to trim his bloated squad.
But Chelsea have made a fine start to the season, winning eight of their opening 14 matches leaving them behind only high-flying Liverpool in the Premier League.
They closed the gap on Wednesday night, beating Southampton 5-1 while the Reds played out a dramatic 3-3 draw with Newcastle.
And Maresca heaped praise on his Chelsea outfit ahead of their trip to Tottenham on Sunday but remained cagey on their title prospects.
Enzo Maresca has claimed that his Chelsea side are 'ahead of his expectations'
He said: 'In terms of points and how we want to play on and off the ball, I was convinced we'd reach that moment but not so early.
'We can do many things better in both situations - attacking and defending. We are ahead of my expectations.
'It's because the players are doing fantastic. Probably the reason why is because we focus on the day by day and seeing how we can improve players. No more than that.'
With the Blues up in second, despite mixed expectations ahead of the season, there is a feeling that they could single themselves out as Liverpool's main competitors.
But Maresca played down any prospect of them lifting the Premier League come May and claimed they are not on the level of last year's top two Manchester City and Arsenal, despite those sides having mixed campaigns so far.
More to follow.
ChelseaEnzo Maresca