“Am sorry i will improve on it” – Enzo Maresca reveals the “mistake” he made against Tottenham
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Maresca Admits Substitution Mistake in Chelsea’s Crucial Win Over Spurs
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has admitted he made a tactical error during his side’s narrow 1-0 victory over Tottenham Hotspur on Thursday night at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues claimed all three points in a tense London derby thanks to a second-half header from Enzo Fernández, a result that pushes Chelsea back into the Premier League’s top four. With Manchester City and Newcastle both securing wins the previous day, Chelsea’s triumph keeps their hopes of Champions League qualification very much alive.
While there was plenty for Chelsea fans to celebrate, Maresca was candid in his post-match press conference, acknowledging a moment of misjudgment during the closing stages of the match.
With Chelsea holding onto their slender lead, Maresca opted to substitute key players Cole Palmer and Enzo Fernández, replacing them with Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Tosin Adarabioyo. However, moments after making the changes, the fourth official indicated 12 minutes of added time — far more than expected.
“To be honest, that was my mistake,” Maresca admitted. “I made the changes before I saw the extra time. When I saw 12 minutes go up, I realised it was probably too early to make those kinds of substitutions. But fortunately, we won the game and we’re happy.”
Both Palmer and Fernández had been instrumental throughout the match. Palmer, back in the starting lineup following a recent knock, provided flair and creativity, while Fernández not only scored the winning goal but also put in a commanding performance in midfield alongside Moisés Caicedo.
Chelsea were also boosted by the return of striker Nicolas Jackson to the starting XI, though the evening was somewhat dampened by the news of another injury setback for defender Wesley Fofana.
Despite the late nerves — especially during the extended added time — Chelsea’s defence held firm to secure yet another clean sheet. Maresca’s side showed resilience and discipline, qualities that could prove vital as the top-four race intensifies.
As the season heads into its final stretch, Chelsea will look to build on this momentum — but Maresca’s honest reflection on his tactical decisions highlights the fine margins that can make or break crucial matches.
