Chelsea owners continue to support Maresca despite disappointing results

Chelsea’s ownership group is still backing manager Enzo Maresca, even after a string of poor performances culminating in a 3-0 defeat to Brighton on Friday. According to reports, the board does not expect Champions League qualification in Maresca’s first season in charge.

The loss to Brighton saw Chelsea fail to register a single shot on target, in what Maresca called the team’s “worst performance” since he took over last summer. It was Chelsea’s third defeat in their last four matches.

Despite fan discontent and chants of “We want our Chelsea back” heard at recent away matches, Maresca’s job is reportedly not under threat. The Italian coach has had to deal with numerous injuries to key players this season.

Maresca acknowledged the team is struggling both defensively and offensively at the moment. “We are in a phase where we concede goals too easily and have trouble scoring,” he said. “There are many areas we can improve. Now is the time we need to stay united.”

Chelsea have slipped to sixth place in the Premier League table and face an uphill battle to finish in the top four Champions League spots. However, the board apparently did not set Champions League qualification as an expectation for this transitional season under new ownership and management.

The Blues face a difficult away match against Aston Villa this weekend as they look to turn around their recent poor form. Maresca has called on the squad to rediscover the team spirit they showed earlier in the campaign.