Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has downplayed speculation surrounding Marc Guehi’s potential return to Chelsea, as his side prepares to face Morecambe in the FA Cup.
Speaking to the press, Maresca provided a measured response to questions about Guehi and offered insights into his approach to squad management amid ongoing rumors.
When asked about the possibility of Guehi coming back to Stamford Bridge, Maresca was unequivocal in clarifying the defender’s current status. “Marc Guehi is a Crystal Palace player,” he stated firmly. “I like Marc for sure, but he’s not our player.” While acknowledging Guehi’s qualities, Maresca emphasized his satisfaction with the defensive options already available in his squad. “I also like the central defenders we have here,” he added. “I like different kinds of defenders in Italy, Spain, and France too, but that doesn’t mean we’re going to buy anyone.”
Speculation about Guehi’s future has intensified, particularly as Chelsea grapples with injuries in their defensive line. However, Maresca brushed off the noise, describing it as “a normal situation” when a team faces setbacks. “When you have injuries in central defense, it’s inevitable that there will be rumors,” he explained. “But at the same time, there’s nothing concrete happening.”
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The conversation also turned to Trevoh Chalobah, another player linked with Chelsea, who is currently on loan at Crystal Palace. When asked if Chalobah might be recalled, Maresca remained consistent in his response. “This is exactly the same situation,” he said. “Trev is a good player, but at this moment, he’s a Palace player.”
Maresca’s diplomatic tone suggests he is keen to avoid fueling unnecessary speculation while focusing on the task at hand: maintaining Chelsea’s form across all competitions. The manager also hinted at potential rotation within his squad for the upcoming FA Cup fixture. Players like Ben Chilwell and Carney Chukwuemeka, who have seen limited game time recently, could play a role this weekend.
“Every player has a part to play, whether it’s in the FA Cup or other competitions,” Maresca noted. “Sometimes, circumstances mean certain players are more involved in one game than another, but we value everyone in the squad.”
The Approach of the Manager
The manager’s comments underscore his strategic approach to managing Chelsea’s resources during a busy season. While injuries have created challenges in key areas, Maresca’s focus remains on developing the talent at his disposal rather than relying on external reinforcements. His remarks about Guehi and Chalobah signal that Leicester is not rushing into the transfer market, despite external pressures.
As the FA Cup clash with Morecambe looms, Maresca’s pragmatic outlook will be crucial in ensuring his squad stays focused amidst the swirling rumors. “We have a game to win, and that’s where our attention is right now,” he concluded.
Chelsea’s supporters will undoubtedly keep an eye on the transfer window developments, but for Maresca, the priority is clear: navigating the challenges of the season with the resources already in place. Whether it’s managing squad depth or addressing speculation about high-profile players, Maresca’s steady hand continues to guide Chelsea through an intriguing campaign.