Maresca Says Chelsea Squad ‘Not a Mess’ After Another Signing

• Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca dismisses claims of disarray, asserting his squad is manageable despite recent transfer activity and player changes
• Maresca clarifies that Raheem Sterling and Ben Chilwell are training separately, emphasizing the need for a streamlined approach to the squad

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca dismissed claims that his squad is in disarray following the club’s recent transfer activity. On Wednesday, Maresca addressed concerns after Chelsea secured another signing with Joao Felix, who was returning to the club on a seven-year contract. This move also saw Conor Gallagher transfer to Atletico Madrid in exchange.

Despite the growing number of players at his disposal, Maresca, who now manages one of the Premier League’s largest squads, was firm in his stance that the situation is under control. He clarified that Raheem Sterling and Ben Chilwell are not currently in his plans.

Maresca emphasized that he only works with a manageable group in training, saying, “I am not working with 42 players, I am working with 21 players (in first-team training). It’s not a mess like it looks from the outside. The other players can even have 20-year contracts, it is not my point. I don’t care.”

Regarding Sterling and Chilwell, Maresca clarified, “At this moment, they are training apart (from the squad). The situation with both of them is quite clear. We have a big squad, for me it’s impossible to give everyone minutes, so if they’re looking for minutes, probably it is better to leave. And in case they don’t leave, they have a contract here, they are Chelsea players.”

Maresca also expressed his enthusiasm for Joao Felix, who returns to Chelsea after an earlier loan spell during the 2022/23 season. “He is a good player, a talent. The club already knows him from two years ago. He can play different positions with us, inside, as a nine, outside,” said Maresca.

Although the transfer fee for Felix was not officially disclosed, reports suggest Chelsea agreed to pay Atletico Madrid £40 million ($51 million). Felix joined Atletico in 2019 and made 131 appearances for Diego Simeone’s side. He spent last season on loan at Barcelona. During his previous loan at Chelsea, Felix made 20 appearances in all competitions, scoring four goals.