Enzo Maresca should now find it easy to select his wingers for Chelsea’s next game against Wolves after their poor result in the Champions League.
The Blues were unable to pick up all three points in Azerbaijan as they drew 2-2 to Qarabag in a game where defensive errors exposed them again.
The majority of these were done by Jorrel Hato, who was caught on the ball for the opening goal and was guilty of a harsh handball for Qarabag’s penalty.
As has been the case in most games this season, Estevao Willian’s performance remained a bright spot. He scored his fourth goal in seven matches for the Blues to open the scoring.
Qarabag FK v Chelsea FC - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD4
Photo by Francesco Scaccianoce – UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images
Enzo Maresca must now start Estevao Willian and Alejandro Garnacho out wide for Chelsea
While the Brazilian impressed from the start, the same could not be said for Jamie Gittens, who was subbed off at half-time for Alejandro Garnacho.
The former Manchester United man has been showing positive signs lately for Chelsea, and was on hand to level the game early in the second half.
Estevao and Garnacho should be the two players Maresca starts in the wide areas when the Blues complete their quick turnaround to take part in the Premier League game against Wolves on Saturday.
The duo are yet to start a Premier League game together since they both joined over the summer, with it being very difficult for the boss to drop Pedro Neto so far this season.
However, that decision may be out of his hands after Neto missed the game against Qarabag due to injury.
Qarabag FK v Chelsea FC - UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD4
Photo by Chris Lee – Chelsea FC/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Chelsea still trying to replace Cole Palmer’s creativity
Chelsea have been without Cole Palmer since the loss to Manchester United, and his presence has very much been missed in recent weeks.
Maresca said Palmer could return this month, however until then he will continue to have to search for the best possible replacement in his current squad.
Estevao created the most chances of any player on the pitch in the Champions League game on Wednesday, and could easily transition into a central role if given the trust by his manager.
Joao Pedro put in another underwhelming display in the Number 10 role, and when ready his fellow Brazilian could be about to give Maresca a very difficult decision when it comes to one of his biggest summer signings.