Chelsea head into their Premier League fixture brimming with confidence following a thrilling Champions League victory over Ajax in midweek — a match that saw three teenage stars find the back of the net.

Reflecting on that memorable night, manager Enzo Maresca praised both the young players and the club’s collective progress.

“It was a special night for the club and the fans,” Maresca said. “We had so many young players involved and they showed their talent. For me, the most important thing is helping them improve day by day. If you can develop the players, you improve the team.”

He emphasized the coaching staff’s commitment to nurturing the next generation:

“We spend time with them after every session, working individually to help them understand how we want to play. They’re young, they need guidance, but improvement comes with time and effort. To make the team better, you must make the players better.”

Managing Minutes and Maintaining Balance

When asked about consistently selecting 17-year-old sensation Estevão, Maresca was clear about the importance of squad balance.

“It’s simple — we have 24 or 25 quality players, but only 11 can start,” he explained. “Since I arrived, we’ve rotated regularly. Of course, players aren’t happy when they don’t play, but they understand it’s part of football.”

He added that the same principle applies across the squad:

“It’s not about age. If you tell Tosin [Adarabioyo], the oldest player, that he’s not starting, he won’t be happy either. Everyone has to accept that they can’t play every game.”

Respect for Sunderland

Chelsea host Sunderland as clear favourites, but Maresca was quick to dismiss any notion of an easy fixture.

“They’ve shown since the start of the season that they’re a very good team,” he said. “They play and work together, and they’re on the same points as us. That shows how well they’re doing. There are no easy games in the Premier League.”

The Italian also praised Regis Le Bris, the Sunderland manager:

“I spent a season in the Championship with Leicester and came to appreciate how competitive it is. I watched Sunderland last season — they play good football and are physically strong. I really like what the manager has done there. The challenge is the same as always: to win. But they’ll definitely test us in different ways.”

Guiu’s Turning Point

Striker Marc Guiu could also feature after being recalled from his loan spell at Sunderland following Liam Delap’s injury.

“Marc is a classic No.9 — physically strong and a real box player,” Maresca said. “He still has plenty to improve, and we’re working with him every day to help him grow. We spoke two weeks ago because I wasn’t happy with how he was training. Since that chat, his attitude has been fantastic.”

Maresca also highlighted João Pedro’s versatility:

“João can play as a No.9 or No.10, and he’s excellent in both roles.”

Helping Estevão Settle

The Chelsea boss revealed that Estevão’s transition has been made easier by the presence of his fellow Brazilians.

“We have Andrey Santos and João Pedro helping him a lot,” Maresca noted. “They already knew him, and as a staff we’re giving him all the support he needs. He’s a special player — he just loves football and he’s happy.”

A Team United

Maresca ended his press conference by praising Enzo Fernández for his selfless gesture during the Ajax win, when the midfielder handed over penalty duties to Estevão.

“I told the players afterward that, yes, we were happy to win, but what really mattered was Enzo giving the ball to Estevão. It showed exactly what kind of team we are right now — united and together.”