In a surprising turn during Chelsea’s recent Champions League match against Atalanta, head coach Enzo Maresca faced criticism for his tactical decisions. The Blues concluded the game with both Reece James and Malo Gusto, typically playing as full-backs, positioned in midfield. Meanwhile, Brazilian forward Estevao Willian and fellow player Andrey Santos remained unused on the bench, raising questions among fans about the team’s strategy.
Maresca later explained that he opted for an additional defender on the pitch, which resulted in Willian’s exclusion. Yet, with one substitution still available, many supporters found it puzzling that Willian, who had scored in his last three Champions League appearances, did not see any action. His frustration was evident, as reported by the Mail Online, which noted that Willian hid his face in disappointment upon realizing he would not be taking the field, especially after looking forward to debuting his new Nike boots, inspired by football legend Ronaldinho.
Looking Ahead to Everton Match
As Chelsea prepares for their upcoming clash against Everton, the question remains whether Willian will finally get his chance. His next opportunity could come soon, but competition for positions on the wing is fierce. The Blues need to secure positive results, and it appears that Maresca must refine his lineup choices if Chelsea hopes to improve their standings.
Cole Palmer did not travel to Italy with the squad, still recovering from a lengthy injury. While resting him may have been a wise decision, his absence adds pressure on the team to perform well against Everton. Many fans believe both Willian and Palmer should start, prompting the question of who will occupy the left flank. One potential candidate is Alejandro Garnacho, who will likely draw on his recent performances, including a remarkable overhead kick against Everton.
Ultimately, Chelsea’s success hinges on Maresca’s ability to identify and deploy his strongest lineup. With players like Willian eager to contribute, the pressure is on to make effective choices in the matches ahead.
