Chelsea star issues Maresca verdict amid sack rumours

Chelsea captain Reece James believes Enzo Maresca is an “amazing manager,” despite concerns over his long-term future at Stamford Bridge.

The Italian enjoyed a fantastic start to life in west London, following his arrival from Leicester City in July, but Chelsea’s form has dipped significantly since Christmas and the Blues now face a major battle to secure Champions League qualification for next season.

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Although the club’s owners remain firm believers in Maresca’s ability to guide Chelsea back to the top of European football, he has been heavily linked with a premature exit amid his side’s recent struggles.

A number of Chelsea fans are even eager for the club to sack Maresca before the end of the 2024-25 campaign following a string of disappointing performances.

However, James has backed his manager and believes he is the right man to guide Chelsea forward.

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Reece James on Enzo Maresca

While on international duty with England, James was asked for his thoughts on the upcoming Club World Cup.

“Everyone at the club is excited,” James admitted (as per BBC Sport). “The best players want to play against the best. It should be an exciting tournament.

“It’s great to interact with fans across the US and outside the UK. We do a little bit of it during pre-season, so it’s great to be back and competing for an actual competition and trophy.

“It could be difficult because we’re used to playing against teams in and around Europe. So, the style is going to be different – how they prepare, how they set up. It will be tough.”

James, who helped Chelsea win the Champions League back in 2021, added: “The goal for any competition is to win. We have an amazing squad, amazing team, amazing manager, and our goal is to win.

“Any trophy of this significance is a huge honour for the club and, obviously, the first time would go down in history.”