Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has welcomed his team’s qualification for the Champions League with a vital 1-0 win against Nottingham Forest at the City Ground. The victory, marked by homegrown defender Levi Colwill’s late goal, ensures that Chelsea can finally point to a season of tangible success since Roman Abramovich and Thomas Tuchel departed.
The win is significant not only for its impact on the team’s Premier League campaign but also for the optics of the project, which has invested heavily in youth development. Maresca has consistently defended his young players, stating that he “didn’t have any doubt about the players” despite criticism from fans and pundits alike.
Chelsea’s qualification for Europe’s elite competition is estimated to be worth £80-100m, with significant implications for the club’s revenue and sustainability under the Premier League profit and sustainability rules (PSR). The team’s new ownership figures are also breathing a sigh of relief, having navigated the complexities of football ownership without prior experience.
Maresca’s focus on developing his squad has been praised by the Stamford Bridge hierarchy, who believe that his style will ultimately pay off. The Italian manager was also asked about fringe players Cole Palmer and Moises Caicedo deserving Champions League spots, to which he responded positively.
While qualification is a significant achievement for Chelsea, it does not necessarily address concerns surrounding matchday prices, ticket reseller investments, and ownership rivalries within the consortium. As one of the co-controlling owners noted, “It’s like owning anything [there are highs and lows]. This one is a little more in my face, but the good thing is the bad news is good news.”
The club’s financial position will be closely watched as they prepare for the summer transfer market, where they plan to sign key players to bridge the gap with Liverpool.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/c98ppr1583do