Estevao Willian’s outstanding performance against Barcelona last night grabbed the show once more. Enzo Maresca was questioned following the match about if he was under increasing pressure to start the Brazilian in the Premier League.
“No, to be honest, it doesn’t get harder to leave him out when he does well,” the Chelsea manager said, adding that it has nothing to do with a first team or second team but rather with the opposition and the strategy.
Pedro Neto plays wide in his position if he doesn’t play. Pedro is also competent. Pedro also makes us joyful. With eleven players, we just attempt to defend the game plan. We made the decision to play with Estevao tonight, which is likely the hardest game of the season. Therefore, I’m not a manager that forbids players from playing minutes. It’s only the strategy.
Every word Enzo Maresca said on Estevao’s goal
Estevao had an excellent game, not just for the goal, as he really aided the team in our pushing. Since Liam is recovering from an injury, he also needed this sort of moment, goal. He was quite well against Burnley, in my opinion, but he’s a striker and a No. 9, and they need a goal. However, we scored three goals that were disallowed tonight. Therefore, I believe we produced enough to win.
It felt great, especially because it was at home with our supporters, as you mentioned. Sharing moments like this is always pleasant. However, I advised the players to fully unplug for the next 48 hours, recuperate, and replenish their energies because Arsenal is on Sunday. But after the game, I told them to simply replenish their energy since that’s what matters most right now. We then begin to consider Arsenal on Friday.
