“Good afternoon, everyone. Welcome to our Match Day minus one press conference, ahead of tomorrow’s UEFA Europa Conference League match against FC Noah. Who’d like to kick things off?”
Journalist: “Kale here! I know Cole Palmer isn’t in the squad for tomorrow, but there’s a massive Premier League game coming up this weekend. Can you update us on his fitness?”
Enzo Maresca: “Sure thing. Cole didn’t train yesterday, so we’ll check today if he’s able to join us for training. Hopefully, he’ll be ready, but we need to wait, assess, and then make a decision.”
Journalist: “How about the rest of the squad? I heard Sanchez had a bit of a knock.”
Enzo Maresca: “Yes, Sanchez did pick up a little knock in training. He’s out for tomorrow, and we’ll see if he’s available on Sunday. If not, we’ll wait until after the international break.”
Journalist: “Anyone else missing for tomorrow night?”
Enzo Maresca: “No, aside from those not registered in the Conference League squad, the rest are available.”
Journalist: “Can we expect a big rotation in the lineup, considering the big game on Sunday?”
Enzo Maresca: “We don’t make changes just because of Sunday. Since the start, we’ve rotated because we have 24-25 fit players, all capable of competing in different competitions. That’s the reason we make changes, and we’ll probably do the same tomorrow.”
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Journalist: “How do the players react when they find out they’re starting in European games instead of the Premier League?”
Enzo Maresca: “Honestly, it’s not an issue. Players know they’ll get chances in both competitions. It’s not about two separate squads; we have one squad of 24-25 players, all fit and ready to contribute. It’s a long season, and every player will get chances in the Conference League, Premier League, or even the FA Cup.”
Journalist: “How much did you know about FC Noah before this draw?”
Enzo Maresca: “To be honest, I hadn’t seen much of them before. But over the past few days, we’ve watched several of their games. I’ve mentioned before, the Conference League can be a tricky competition for us because teams come out strong against us. We have to be ready, both technically and mentally.”
Journalist: “Now that you’ve watched some of their matches, what can we expect from them tomorrow?”
Enzo Maresca: “They play differently in their domestic league, so we’re not entirely sure how they’ll approach this match. But I’ve said it before, football today is full of good players and coaches from all over the world. You can find strong teams anywhere, and we have to be prepared.”
Journalist: “The England squad announcement is tomorrow. With Reece James, for example, you’ve said he’s playing just one game a week. Would you be disappointed if he’s selected, given he’s just coming back from injury?”
Enzo Maresca: “Honestly, I don’t know. We’re pleased with his progress and his performances with us, but the international team is a separate decision. I always support players joining their national teams because it’s good for them and for us as a club. But I have no idea if he’ll be in the squad.”
Journalist: “And João Félix—he’s been performing well when he plays, but he hasn’t been able to start in the Premier League. Is there something specific you’re looking for from him?”
Enzo Maresca: “I feel bad for João, honestly, and not just him—there are others. It’s about finding the right balance in the squad. I’d love to play him alongside players like Cole and Chris, but we need a defensive structure too. João will get his moment, I have no doubt about that, as long as he keeps working hard.”
Journalist: “Some say Mudryk is also at a bit of a crossroads in his career. Do you agree?”
Enzo Maresca: “It’s similar with Kristensen. Both of them work hard and have been consistent, like in preseason when Kristensen was one of our top players. Mudryk may look shy to the outside, but with us, he’s fully committed. I just need to find the right balance in the squad, and they’ll both get their chances.”
Journalist: “After the Panathinaikos game, you talked about some players adapting slower than others. Can you elaborate?”
Enzo Maresca: “Yes, that’s true. Since then, he’s been playing more minutes, and it’s a learning process. For our wingers, I want them to arrive in the box, to be smart about 1v1 situations and know when to pull back if the opportunity isn’t there. We’re working on that with them every day.”
Journalist: “Last question from me—how’s Kristensen adapting as a person in the squad?”
Enzo Maresca: “Everyone’s different, and you can’t always change someone’s personality. He might seem a bit reserved, but within the squad, he’s fitting in just fine.”
Journalist: “Thanks, Enzo!”
Enzo Maresca: “Thank you all.”