Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca hit back at critics of his team’s 1-0 victory over Leicester, insisting that winning in the Premier League is far from as easy as it looks on a “PlayStation” console.
Maresca’s side secured a crucial three points at Stamford Bridge on Sunday, with Marc Cucurella’s long-range strike in the second half lifting Chelsea to fourth place in the league.
However, the Blues’ lackluster performance, particularly in the first half, led to boos from frustrated supporters.
Despite the criticism, Maresca defended his team’s style, which prioritises possession over rapid attacking play.
He highlighted the difficulty of Premier League matches and rejected the notion that football could be won easily like a video game.
“People need to understand that this is our way, our style, and this is how we are going to play,” Maresca said after the match.
“When a team creates the number of chances we did today, you have to be happy. Leicester were 0-0 against Arsenal until the 83rd minute. If you think football is just PlayStation and you win easily, that’s not the reality. Every game is tough. The players’ efforts today were fantastic.”
Chelsea’s win moved them two points ahead of Manchester City in the battle for a top-four finish and a Champions League spot.
However, frustration continued for Maresca as Cole Palmer missed a penalty in the first half, his effort saved by Leicester’s Mads Hermansen. Palmer, who has not scored in eight matches, had been battling illness over the last few days.
“Yesterday, he didn’t train. He was very unwell, but he woke up this morning and wanted to play. He wanted to help the club qualify for the Champions League,” Maresca explained. “This shows the players’ commitment to bringing this club where it belongs.”
Leicester’s situation remains grim, as they sit six points adrift of safety after suffering their 12th defeat in 13 matches.
Despite their struggles, Leicester manager Ruud van Nistelrooy praised his players’ performance but acknowledged the team’s lack of luck.
“We came away with a penalty save to go into halftime at 0-0. That’s the kind of luck we need to turn things around,” Van Nistelrooy said.
“There were lots of positives, but unfortunately, we have to take the blow of taking nothing from the game.”
