Enzo Maresca had what he called the “worst” 48 hours of his Chelsea career last week in the week of the defeat to Atalanta.
While he then went on to lead his team to a win over Everton at the weekend, those comments sparked a whole furore that has been hanging over him ever since. So a win today was important – and even more important was how the fans reacted to him and vice versa.
Maresca and Chelsea fans exchange pleasantries after win
Enzo Maresca celebrates at full time.
Enzo Maresca celebrates at full time. (Photo by Dan Istitene/Getty Images)
At full time after the win, Maresca approached the travelling support and was positively received. He blew kisses and tapped the badge, while the fans responded by signing his name.
This was more than just good vibes – this was a clear power play of sorts, with Maresca showing the world that he still has the support of the away fans. His opposition in the dispute, the sporing directors, don’t have the same support.
We said that a couple of wins would ease the tension and it has, but the shot has been fired and that tension will always be below the surface now, no matter how well things go in the next few months.
You can see Maresca’s reaction to the fans and hear some of the chanting in the video from our man on the ground Charlie Patrick, embedded here:
Enzo Maresca taps the Chelsea badge and blows kisses to the fans.
With you all the way gaffer!
Oh Enzo Maresca 🎶 pic.twitter.com/JoUPqHjX9L
— Charlie Patrick (@charliepatrick0) December 16, 2025
In other news…
The Blues wrapped up the game with two late goals from their subs, with Maresca forced to turn to the first team to get the job done in the end.
Chelsea’s first goal in the game from half time sub Alejandro Garnacho. He finished first time after being played in by Facundo Buonanotte, who had taken advantage of a rare Cardiff possession error and stolen the ball.
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