Maresca Labels Newcastle Clash a 'Final' as Chelsea's Champions League Hopes Hang in the Balance
Wafric News – May 9, 2025
London – With Champions League hopes hanging by a thread, Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has described Sunday’s Premier League showdown against Newcastle United as one of three “finals” that could define the Blues' season.
London – With Champions League hopes hanging by a thread, Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has described Sunday’s Premier League showdown against Newcastle United as one of three “finals” that could define the Blues' season.
Set for an early 12 p.m. kick-off at St James’ Park, the clash carries massive implications for Chelsea’s top-five ambitions. A loss in Tyneside, coupled with a Nottingham Forest win over already-relegated Leicester City, could see the West London side tumble out of the Champions League qualification zone.
Speaking to media on Friday, Maresca remained coy about his starting lineup, keeping fans guessing as the Blues face quick turnaround pressure following their Thursday night fixture.
“We played Thursday night and have a 12 p.m. game on Sunday—it’s not ideal,” Maresca admitted. “We’ll prepare the best we can and make the right decisions after training today and tomorrow.”
The Italian tactician hinted that the first-leg result against Djurgarden in Europe gave Chelsea room to “rotate and protect players,” suggesting potential lineup changes for the high-stakes Newcastle clash.
But one thing is clear: Maresca is treating this as do-or-die.
“This is the next one, the most important one. For us, we have to treat it like it’s the last match of the season. We give everything—then we see where we stand.”
Chelsea come into the match on the back of three consecutive league wins, building strong momentum at just the right time. But standing in their way is Eddie Howe’s Newcastle, themselves chasing European qualification and ready to pounce on any slip-ups.
A win at St James’ Park would be a major statement from Maresca’s men and could cement their Champions League return after seasons of turbulence and transition.
What’s Next?
After Newcastle, Chelsea’s remaining fixtures pit them against Manchester United and Nottingham Forest — two unpredictable opponents in a tense run-in. With the Premier League table tightening at the top, every point matters, and Maresca knows it.
“We’re entering our final sprint,” Maresca said. “Three finals. Nothing less.”
By WafricNews Desk.
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