Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has moved to dismiss concerns over Cole Palmer's reaction to being substituted during his side's disappointing 2-1 home defeat to Aston Villa on Saturday.
Palmer's Visible Displeasure
The match at Stamford Bridge saw Chelsea take a first-half lead through Joao Pedro, who flicked in a Reece James corner. However, the game turned after the break as two goals from Villa substitute Ollie Watkins secured all three points for Unai Emery's team.
In a pivotal moment with the score locked at 1-1, Palmer was withdrawn in the 72nd minute, making way for Estevao. The England midfielder's unhappiness was clear for all to see as he left the pitch, engaging in a brief but animated conversation with assistant coach Willy Caballero before taking his seat on the bench.
Maresca's Post-Match Explanation
When questioned after the game about whether Palmer's reaction was a worry, Maresca was unequivocal. 'No, no,' the Italian stated. 'He was working very good. He was on the ball and off the ball, pressing, he was very good.'
Maresca emphasised the demanding schedule, noting, 'We have another game now in 48 hours, so he was good and we are happy that he’s back.' He clarified that the decision was not purely fitness-related, but acknowledged Palmer's effort levels: 'No, I think he was working very hard but he was a bit tired. Overall, he had a good game.'
Chelsea's Fading Momentum
The result leaves Chelsea in fifth place in the Premier League table, with just a single victory from their last six outings. Maresca, who served a touchline ban and watched from the stands, pinpointed a critical moment that changed the game's dynamic.
'I think the goal we conceded for sure changed the dynamic of the game,' he reflected. 'I don’t know if it’s the three changes, but for sure, until the goal we conceded, we were in control. I think by the time we conceded the first goal, we should have scored two or three goals.'
He highlighted a recurring issue for his team: 'For sure, we have to be clinical because, again, as I said, by the time they scored the goal, I think we should have scored two or three goals and the game is different.' Maresca also pointed to a need for better game management after conceding, suggesting it is an area for improvement that comes with experience.
