There were a lot of question marks when Chelsea decided to appoint Enzo Maresca in the summer.
Before joining Chelsea, Enzo Maresca had only managed at Leicester City and Parma, with his spell at the Italian club being a very short one.
However, it did not take long for the Chelsea manager to start getting supporters onside. Under him, the Blues have put in some really good performances and have a great chance of qualifying for the Champions League.
One of those bright displays came against London rivals West Ham United back in September.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca during the Premier League match between West Ham United FC and Chelsea FC at London Stadium on September 21, 2024 in L...
Photo by Rob Newell – CameraSport via Getty Images
Why Chelsea’s win against West Ham was significant
West Ham are not the toughest team Chelsea have faced this season. In fact, the Hammers have been really poor and showed their defensive frailties against Maresca’s men on the day as they went on to lose 3-0.
However, for those taking a keen interest in Chelsea and Maresca, it is not a match that should be overlooked. That is because the Blues’ record at the London Stadium is poor and in the past, West Ham have managed to beat their London rivals even when they have been near the bottom of the table.
Before Maresca took his side to east London in September, Chelsea had a record of one win in seven games at the Hammers’ home.
Chelsea’s last eight results at the London Stadium Result
2024/25 0-3 W
2023/24 3-1 L
2022/23 1-1 D
2021/22 3-2 L
2020/21 0-1 W
2019/20 3-2 L
2018/19 0-0 D
2017/18 1-0 L
The fact that Chelsea were able to go there and win so comfortably showed that Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali got their appointment right.
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Nicolas Jackson started to show that he was the real deal that afternoon after grabbing a brace before Cole Palmer scored his customary goal, but Maresca was the mastermind behind that victory.
Why Enzo Maresca will still have some doubters
A win against a very poor West Ham side and half a good season may not convince everyone.
Maresca may still have a doubter or two, largely because of how Chelsea have performed in their big games this term.
For example, the Blues lost against both Manchester City and Liverpool and had to settle for draws with Manchester United and Arsenal.
If Maresca wants to lead Chelsea to title glory one day, then that is one area where his side are going to need to improve.
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