By Martin Graham
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has said he remains content in his role and is growing increasingly attached to his squad, only days after describing a difficult period that followed league action.
The London side are fourth in the Premier League after beating Everton at the weekend and then booked a place in the Carabao Cup semi-finals with a 3-1 win away to League One opponents Cardiff City.
Despite the positive outcomes, attention focused on remarks made by Maresca after the Everton match, when he claimed the previous two days had been the toughest since his arrival because of a perceived lack of backing for both himself and the team.
Reaction to criticism and fan support
Uncertainty remains over who or what the comments were aimed at, and the Italian declined to clarify the issue when asked during a media briefing earlier in the week.
After the victory in South Wales, secured through goals from substitutes Pedro Neto and Alejandro Garnacho, Maresca stressed that he does feel encouragement from the stands.
He explained that frustration from supporters during difficult spells is natural, adding that overall the backing has consistently been present, even during moments when results have not gone their way.
Squad commitment and future aims
Maresca added that challenging fixtures of this nature deepen his appreciation for his players, highlighting how easily such matches can become complicated without the right mentality.
Since taking charge, he has guided Chelsea to Club World Cup and Europa Conference League success and has now reached three semi-finals within 18 months.
With injuries to Cole Palmer and the suspension of Moises Caicedo affecting selection choices, Maresca said his decisions are driven by a desire to serve the best interests of supporters, players, and the club as a whole, insisting the overall direction remains positive.