Chelsea will be without head coach Enzo Maresca on the touchline this weekend when they host Everton at Stamford Bridge. The Italian tactician has been handed a one-match suspension by the Football Association after accumulating three yellow cards this season, according to a report from the BBC.
Maresca’s most recent booking came on Sunday during Chelsea’s dramatic 2-1 win over Fulham, when he was shown a yellow card for an exuberant celebration following Pedro Neto’s stunning stoppage-time winner.
The emotional outburst was understandable—Neto’s strike not only secured all three points but also pushed Chelsea into fifth place, the final Champions League qualifying spot, edging past Nottingham Forest on goal difference.
READ ALSO: Serie A and All Italian Football Suspended Following Death of Pope Francis
However, Chelsea’s grip on that coveted position is far from secure. Nottingham Forest could reclaim fifth place if they manage to avoid defeat in their clash against Tottenham later on Monday.
Maresca’s earlier yellow cards this season came during matches against Newcastle and Bournemouth. With this being his third, he’ll serve an automatic one-game suspension. He’ll be eligible to return for Chelsea’s highly anticipated showdown with league leaders Liverpool on May 4.
READ ALSO: Paris Pays Tribute to Pope Francis: Eiffel Tower Lights to Go Dark in His Honor
In his absence, assistant manager and former Blues goalkeeper Willy Caballero is expected to take charge on the sidelines against Everton. Known for his calm demeanor and close connection with the players, Caballero stepping in offers continuity during a crucial stage of the campaign.
With the race for European qualification heating up, every point matters—and so does every presence on the touchline. Maresca will no doubt be a vocal figure behind the scenes this week as Chelsea prepare for Saturday’s test, even if he won’t be in his usual place beside the pitch.
Discover more from Scoop Hub
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.