The recent dismissal of Erik ten Hag has disrupted Chelsea’s preparation for their upcoming Premier League clash with Manchester United, as Enzo Maresca’s analytical team had already invested substantial time studying United’s play style under the Dutch manager.
With Chelsea’s visit to Old Trafford next on the schedule, Maresca is now shifting focus to PSV matches from Ruud van Nistelrooy’s tenure to prepare for Sunday’s game.
If Ruben Amorim is appointed United’s manager in time, the analysis team may need to pivot once again to examine Sporting Lisbon’s style under the Portuguese coach.
Addressing the challenge ahead of Chelsea’s Carabao Cup match against Newcastle, Maresca shared: “I assume Ruud [will be in charge on Sunday]. He’s a friend. We played together at Malaga [in the 2011-12 season] and still keep in touch.
“We’ve begun watching PSV games. It’s a bit frustrating, as we had already analyzed plenty of United matches. I’m sad for Erik but happy for Ruud, and hopefully, I’ll see him on Sunday.”
Maresca also recalled last season’s Carabao Cup final, where Liverpool edged out Chelsea with a 1-0 win. When asked about Gary Neville’s comment branding Chelsea “billion-pound bottle jobs,” he said he hadn’t caught the remark.
Reflecting on Chelsea’s readiness, he added, “I remember they highlighted the difference in experience between Liverpool and Chelsea in finals. The gap was significant. You need to go through those moments and gain that experience.”
Additionally, Chelsea’s goalkeeping coach Hilario has drawn interest from Thomas Tuchel, now with the England national team. Currently, however, Hilario remains with Chelsea.
Chelsea’s second-choice goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen will start in the midweek cup match against Newcastle, with Robert Sanchez under pressure to secure his position as the club’s No. 1 keeper.
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