In a shocking interview, Chelsea defender Trevoh Chalobah has opened up about the chaotic 1-3 Premier League loss to Brighton at Stamford Bridge on September 27, 2025, revealing the “shocking words” Enzo Maresca directed at him after his red card. Chalobah, sent off in the 53rd minute for denying Diego Gomez a clear goalscoring chance, apologized to teammates for triggering Chelsea’s second-half collapse but criticized Maresca’s response, calling it “something no manager should ever say to a player.” The comments hint at growing unrest in a squad already hit by injuries, fines, and poor form as Chelsea sit 7th with 10 points from eight games, facing tough fixtures against Southampton, Tottenham, and Liverpool.
The match reflected Chelsea’s turbulent season. Enzo Fernández had put the Blues ahead in the 24th minute, but Chalobah’s rash challenge on Gomez led to a red card following a VAR review. Reduced to ten men, Chelsea conceded three late goals: Danny Welbeck equalized in the 68th minute, and Maxim De Cuyper and Welbeck sealed the comeback in stoppage time. It was Chelsea’s second straight league red card and first home defeat since April. Maresca publicly criticized the team’s defensive lapses but privately, his words to Chalobah were far harsher.
In the Sky Sports interview, Chalobah said: “I apologized to my teammates – that red card cost us, and I own it. But what hurt was what Enzo said in the tunnel: ‘You’re done here – go find another club, because you’re not good enough.’ No manager should say that. It felt personal.” Chalobah revealed the remarks left him “stunned and isolated,” causing tension among players.
The revelation has sent shockwaves through Stamford Bridge. Chalobah, a fan favorite and academy product, has struggled for starts this season due to injuries in defense. His red card also means suspension against Liverpool, and FA action may follow. Teammates suggest Maresca’s harsh treatment of Chalobah reflects a deeper issue, with whispers of a potential January move.
Maresca was evasive when questioned about the incident, insisting discipline is necessary. Chelsea’s form has dipped since the Club World Cup, with squad tensions evident. Fans and pundits have criticized Maresca, highlighting the risk of toxic management.
For Chalobah, the experience is personal: “I’ve given everything since I was eight. But if that’s how Enzo sees me, maybe it’s time to go.” With defensive options limited, Chelsea faces ongoing challenges, and the breakdown in trust underscores the fragile state of the squad.
