Chelsea’s struggles continue with loss to Leeds United
Enzo Maresca has opened up on his decision to hook teenage talent Estevao in Chelsea’s disastrous 3-1 defeat to Leeds United at Elland Road on Wednesday night, reports BritPanorama.
The Blues went into the game hoping to continue their charge towards the Premier League table but were outplayed in all departments by Daniel Farke’s relegation-threatened side. Leeds quickly established control, going 2-0 up following first-half goals from Jaka Bijol and Ao Tanaka, buoyed by a raucous home crowd.
Chelsea managed to pull back a goal through Pedro Neto after the interval; however, the match was sealed as Dominic Calvert-Lewin netted with 18 minutes remaining. This result leaves Chelsea nine points behind Arsenal at the top of the Premier League, with Manchester City and Aston Villa also ahead in the standings.
The evening provided few positives for Chelsea, leading Maresca to express his disappointment post-match. “A very poor night,” he reflected. “They [Leeds] deserved to win the game; they were better in all aspects,” he added. Maresca pointed out that the only way forward is to understand the mistakes made and reset quickly, with another game approaching in 48 hours.
One player who struggled significantly for Chelsea was Estevao. The Brazil international, previously impressive, especially during a 3-0 Champions League victory against Barcelona, was taken off at half-time after receiving a yellow card for a retaliation foul. Maresca explained this decision, stating, “Sometimes aged 18, you struggle to manage emotion, so it was better to change him and to avoid any red card.”
For Leeds, the victory marks a crucial step in their fight against relegation. Farke expressed delight in his side’s performance, noting, “This is why we have worked so desperately in the past, to bring us back on this level. Unbelievable atmosphere tonight, playing one of the best sides in the world, and to win this game and also deserve to.” He praised his team’s approach, emphasising their physical dominance and tactical flexibility against a stronger opponent.
Leeds are next scheduled to face Liverpool on Saturday, while Chelsea will play Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium on the same day, aiming to bounce back from this damaging defeat.
In football, it often seems the brightest hopes can fade before they truly begin, as Chelsea’s young stars once again felt the weight of expectation against a side newly revitalised. The tension between promise and performance is palpable, reminding us how swiftly the narrative can shift in the beautiful game.
