Enzo Maresca has sent a strong message to Chelsea supporters as the first international break of 2025 draws to a close.
Players have been in action for their respective countries over the last week, whether that be in the Nations League or World Cup qualifiers. For Maresca, though, full attention has been on the final months of the season with plenty still to play for across numerous competitions.
Chelsea will return to Premier League action on Thursday, April 3, with the visit of London rivals Tottenham. A few days later, they will visit Brentford in the league before the first leg of their Europa Conference League quarter-final clash against Legia Warszawa.
Taking to Instagram on Monday, Maresca shared the following message along with a image of his players: "The hard work never stops — even during international weeks. Fourth in the Premier League, quarter finals of the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup.
"Together with our fans all over the world. Let’s Keep The Blue Flag Flying High!"
Chelsea are locked in a battle for top four alongside Nottingham Forest, Manchester City, Newcastle United, Brighton, Fulham, Aston Villa and Bournemouth. The likelihood of an additional Champions League place this season means securing a high enough finish in the table is more crucial than ever.
The Blues last qualified for UEFA's premier competition in the 2021/22 season, when they finished third behind City and Liverpool. They finished top of their Champions League group the following campaign, but were knocked out by Real Madrid at the quarter-final stage.
If Chelsea are to win the Conference League this season, which they are among the favourites to do so, they will automatically qualify for next term's Europa League. However, Maresca will hope that isn't necessary as his side target a top four finish and qualification for the Champions League.
This summer will also see the FIFA Club World Cup take place between June 15 and July 13. Chelsea are one of two English clubs, alongside City, to compete in this year's competition and they will take on some of the globe's biggest teams, with the tournament to be staged in the USA.
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Chelsea flag prior the UEFA Champions League Quarter Final Leg One match between Chelsea FC and Real Madrid at Stamford Bridge. (Photo by Jose Breton/Pics Action/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
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