Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has identified only two members of his squad who met the required standard during their disappointing 3–1 loss to Leeds United in Wednesday night’s Premier League clash.
The Blues were put under pressure early at Elland Road, with Leeds taking a commanding 2–0 lead in the first half courtesy of goals from Jaka Bijol and Ao Tanaka. Chelsea managed to respond shortly after the restart, as Pedro Neto halved the deficit with a composed finish that briefly revived hope for the visitors.
However, despite the momentum swing, Chelsea failed to capitalise on further opportunities. Dominic Calvert-Lewin later punished a defensive mix-up in the Chelsea backline to restore Leeds’ two-goal advantage and secure all three points for the home side. The defeat leaves Chelsea nine points adrift of Premier League leaders Arsenal as the title race intensifies.
Speaking during his post-match press conference, Maresca—formerly of Leicester City—expressed frustration at the overall team performance but highlighted Alejandro Garnacho and Pedro Neto as the only bright spots of the evening.
“I think tonight’s game there is no one that was at this level or the best level,” Maresca said. “I think all the teams, all the ones probably, Pedro [Neto], second half, Garna [Alejandro Garnacho], second half, they were our best players, because after we scored the goal we had two chances with Cole [Palmer] and with Joao [Pedro]. But then the third goal I think killed the game.”
The loss sees Chelsea drop to fourth place on the Premier League table, with Aston Villa overtaking them following a win at Brighton. Chelsea will now look to regroup quickly as they prepare for an away fixture against Bournemouth on Saturday.
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