Chelsea’s manager, Enzo Maresca, is banking on the club’s rejuvenated midfield to provide the edge in their high-stakes Premier League showdown with Newcastle this Sunday.
The Chelsea boss stuck with the same starting eleven for back-to-back games for the first time in six months, a decision that paid off handsomely in their 3-1 victory over Liverpool last weekend.
Central to that success was the return of Romeo Lavia, who has finally enjoyed consecutive starts after a long injury layoff dating back to last year.
Maresca also praised the form of midfield duo Moises Caicedo, recently named Chelsea’s player of the season, and Enzo Fernandez, both of whom are now showing their best since signing for the club. Their growing influence has helped free up forward Cole Palmer, who broke his goal drought in the win against Liverpool.
With momentum building, Maresca believes midfield superiority could be the deciding factor at St. James’ Park, where Newcastle’s success has been driven by the performances of Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali.
“Definitely. Being able to name the same starting XI again is crucial,” said Maresca. “Having Romeo fit, Moises and Enzo in form, and Cole thriving gives us a strong foundation. Newcastle also have quality midfielders like Guimaraes, Tonali, Murphy, and Willock. It’s set up to be a massive game.”
Chelsea, currently fifth, sit level on points with Newcastle and trail only on goals scored. A win for either side could prove pivotal in securing Champions League qualification.
The Blues, who are also preparing for a UEFA Conference League final against Real Betis, have hit form at a critical point, winning six of their last nine league fixtures.
However, Maresca acknowledged that their ultimate fate may still hinge on their final two matches—home to Manchester United and away to Nottingham Forest, another team chasing a top-five spot.
Asked whether Newcastle’s more open style might benefit his side, Maresca said, “I hope it does. We’ve played well against both defensive teams and those that press high. We just need to continue showing that consistency.”
