Chelsea Manager Enzo Maresca Praises Estevao After Beating Wolves

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca admitted he was “very worried” ahead of his team’s convincing 3-0 victory over Wolves in the Premier League, praising young talent Estevao Willian for his impact off the bench. The Blues’ dominant win at Stamford Bridge lifts them to second in the table, while Wolves remain rooted to the bottom without a manager and with just two points from their opening 11 games.

Chelsea Manager Enzo Maresca’s Pre-Match Concerns

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca was candid after the match about his anxieties before facing 20th-placed Wolves. “I was very worried before this game. These are the worst games—they’re tricky. Everyone expects an easy win,” Maresca told reporters. Despite his concerns, his team delivered a commanding performance, never allowing the struggling Wolves side a foothold in the game.

Blues Dominate and Climb the Premier League Table

From the opening whistle, Chelsea controlled possession and created several first-half chances, orchestrated by captain Enzo Fernandez, who pulled the strings in midfield. Wolves held on until halftime, but Chelsea’s persistent attacks paid off soon after the break. Malo Gusto broke the deadlock with a well-taken goal, followed by Joao Pedro doubling the lead. A third goal, courtesy of a Pedro Neto own goal, sealed the result.

The win marks Chelsea’s second straight league victory, following their triumph over Tottenham Hotspur, and propels them to second place, now just six points behind leaders Arsenal.

Estevao Willian Makes Impact Off the Bench

Maresca reserved special praise for Estevao Willian, who energized the team after being subbed on in the second half. “When Estevao came on, the energy raised because people love that kind of player. You can see his talent,” Maresca said. The manager noted the Brazilian youngster is still adapting to English football: “He’s getting better each day. We’re helping him adjust and giving him the right minutes.”

Maresca emphasized that Estevao’s previous club did not train at the intensity required in the Premier League, but the staff are working closely with him to improve his physical condition. “Slowly, now he is better. He knows that to play with us he needs to be good on and off the ball. We are very happy with him,” Maresca added.

Garnacho Finds Form Under Maresca

Alejandro Garnacho, once seen as surplus at Manchester United, has become a key figure for Maresca. The Argentine winger provided two assists and is regaining his confidence and performance levels under the Italian coach’s guidance.

Wolves’ Caretaker Manager Reflects on Defeat

Wolves caretaker boss James Collins remained defiant despite another loss: “The boys are together and are working hard. There’s no little cliques, they’re very together. There’s work to do, we’ve got to improve. Our season is not going to be defined by Chelsea away.”

Injury Blow for Fernandez and International Duty

After his player-of-the-match display, captain Enzo Fernandez announced he will miss Argentina’s upcoming friendlies due to a persistent knee injury: “I had a problem with my knee for the last four months. I think the most important thing is coming to the end of the season and I think it’s good to make this decision together, always respecting the doctors and everything.”

Maresca hopes to have his inspirational captain fit after the break for their next league match against Burnley.

What This Win Means for Chelsea

This victory demonstrates Chelsea’s growing confidence under Enzo Maresca, who continues to get the best out of his squad. With Estevao Willian making promising strides and Garnacho rediscovering his form, the Blues look well-positioned for a strong campaign as they chase Arsenal at the top.

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Opinion: Maresca’s Honesty a Sign of Progress

It’s refreshing to see a Premier League manager like Enzo Maresca openly admit his nerves before a supposedly “easy” fixture. This humility, coupled with his willingness to trust young players like Estevao, signals a new era of transparency and development at Chelsea. If Maresca continues blending savvy management with youth integration, the Blues could be serious contenders this season.