FULL STORY: Why Maresca Risked Palmer & Jackson in 2-1 Loss to Legia Warsaw
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has explained his controversial decision to start Cole Palmer and Nicolas Jackson in the second leg of Chelsea’s UEFA Europa Conference League quarter-final against Legia Warsaw, despite holding a comfortable 3-0 aggregate lead. Fans expected a rotated squad to rest key players ahead of a crucial Premier League match against Fulham, but Maresca fielded a strong lineup—including Reece James, Marc Cucurella, Palmer, and Jackson.
However, the move didn’t pay off on the night, as Chelsea lost 2-1 at Stamford Bridge. While they advanced to the semi-finals with a 4-2 aggregate win, the performance raised eyebrows. Chelsea looked flat, and the risk taken by Maresca came under heavy scrutiny from fans and pundits alike.
In his post-match press conference, Maresca justified the decision:
> “The idea was for them, especially for Nico, to help him continue building fitness. Cole had a small problem before the break, so we used him for 45 minutes or an hour to help him get his rhythm back. If they had scored, it would have been a big confidence boost.”
Jackson, who only played the first half, is still searching for his first goal in 2025, following injury setbacks. Palmer, Chelsea’s standout player earlier this season, has now gone 15 matches without scoring, with his last goal coming in January against Bournemouth.
The match was seen by many as the perfect opportunity for both players to regain confidence and rediscover form. But neither delivered, and Chelsea’s only goal came from an unlikely source—defender Marc Cucurella.
Maresca’s decision becomes even more significant considering Chelsea’s current situation. With six Premier League games left and pressure mounting to qualify for next season’s Champions League, Maresca is desperate to get his attackers firing again. Chelsea not only need a strong league finish but also must go all the way in the Conference League to secure European football.
> “We’re trying to get them back to their best. Even if the game didn’t require risks, sometimes the bigger picture matters more.”
Maresca’s gamble showed belief in his players but also highlighted the club’s ongoing attacking struggles. With Palmer off form, Jackson lacking sharpness, and injuries to key players like Nkunku and Sterling affecting depth, Maresca is working under pressure.
The next test comes fast—Chelsea vs Fulham in the Premier League. For Maresca, the decision to play Palmer and Jackson against Legia will be seen in a different light if they deliver at Craven Cottage. If they don’t, the heat on his de
cisions will only rise.
