Enzo Maresca took to social media to issue a statement following Chelsea's victory over Leicester in the Premier League on Sunday. The Blues defeated the basement dwellers 1-0, but it was another tense outing for Maresca, whose tactics had been booed by the Chelsea faithful.
Marc Cucurella proved to be the difference maker for Chelsea, with the Spanish left-back netting the winner with a stunning long-range strike midway through the second half. Chelsea were forced to huff and puff for the three points, with Leicester defending resolutely throughout the contest and threatening to snatch an equaliser late on.
It was by no means the confidence-boosting victory Maresca would've hoped for heading into Sunday's game, with the Italian coach's tactics having once again come under fire. Boos were heard by the crowd when Enzo Fernandez played the ball backwards towards the goalkeeper while Chelsea were pushing for a goal.
Maresca has by no means been a fan's favourite since arriving at the Bridge and the former Leicester chief urged Chelsea fans to stay unified after the much-maligned Leicester showing. Posting on Instagram, Maresca said: "All together we are stronger. THANK YOU ?????? #ChelseaFC."
Maresca had commented on the boos during his post-match debrief, insisting Fernandez's decision to pass backwards is exactly what he was asking for. He said: "Yeah, but the good thing is that Fernandez knows that if he doesn't play back, I will change him. If the 'keeper plays long, I will change him. This is what we have."
Fernandez played the full 90 minutes against Chelsea, completing 52 of his 66 attempted passes during the game, at a completion rate of 79 per cent. He was particularly industrious in the final third though, with the Argentine midfielder creating six chances for his teammates, including the pass that led to Cucurella's winner.
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