While Chelsea ended their pre-season tour in the United States on Tuesday night with a 2-1 defeat against Real Madrid, Blues coach Enzo Maresca did not hide his concern about his team’s defensive effectiveness.
Friendly matches serve to notify and correct the weak points of a team. And Chelsea’s weak point, Enzo Maresca clearly identified it upon his arrival at the head of the Blues. It is the defensive sector, and the figures prove it. In four matches in the United States, the Londoners have conceded ten goals in total (four against Manchester City, four against Celtic, two against Real). The Italian spoke about this problem after his team’s last match against Real Madrid.
“Defense is a problem we are trying to solve […] One of my first meetings with the players, with the group, was about the number of goals we conceded last year, with a very high defensive line. “, explained Maresca. Working on a lower block than last season, one of the keys to consolidating the Blues’ defense this season.
To work again on the team’s defensive deficiencies, Chelsea will play a final friendly against Inter Milan at Stamford Bridge on Sunday. Then it’s time for the Premier League the following week. And the Blues will not be allowed to make any mistakes on this first day. Enzo Maresca’s players will host the four-time reigning English champion, Manchester City. The perfect opponent to be put to the test defensively.
