Enzo Maresca has struck a cautious tone as Chelsea prepare to face Manchester United at Old Trafford tomorrow.
The Blues head coach suggested his side will be at a disadvantage, pointing to several factors that could work in United’s favor. Maresca noted that Erik ten Hag’s team have had the benefit of a midweek rest, while Chelsea were pushed through a demanding Champions League clash in Munich.
He also warned that United’s recent struggles could make them more dangerous:
“First of all, the desire to win this game \[will be the biggest challenge for Chelsea]. When you struggle, the next \[game] is the one that you want to win. The desire to win against Chelsea, at home, in front of their fans. So there are all reasons that can be very important for them.”
On top of that, Maresca underlined Chelsea’s poor recent record at Old Trafford, calling it one of the toughest venues in the league.
“I think it’s always difficult to play United away in their stadium, Old Trafford. So I don’t think that now is the right moment or next year will be the right moment or last year was the right moment \[to end the hoodoo].”
Despite United’s inconsistent start to the season, Maresca remains wary of their threat. He pointed out that even in their defeats, such as against Manchester City, they created chances and stayed competitive for large parts of the match.
“It’s always difficult. It’s a difficult team, it’s a difficult stadium. I watch the games that they play this season. Some of the games are not a real result in terms of even City game. Until 1-0, 2-0 they were in the game. When the game wasn’t in there, they had a few chances to score and to go ahead on the result. So it will be a tough game.”
With Maresca’s cautious remarks painting United as wounded but dangerous, Chelsea fans may be left wondering whether their coach is managing expectations—or bracing for another difficult trip to Old Trafford.
