Chelsea has made a strong start to the new season, showing evident improvement under their new manager, Enzo Maresca.
Currently positioned fourth in the league, the team is displaying some of its finest football in recent years, a notable change from the previous season under Mauricio Pochettino.
Although Pochettino managed to secure a sixth-place finish despite a difficult beginning, he struggled to motivate the squad and optimize the performance of his players.
Maresca has successfully introduced defensive solidity while developing an attack that offers a range of options and presents challenges for their opponents.
However, one significant area of concern lies in the form of their goalkeeper, Robert Sanchez, who has faced criticism for his recent performances.
Chelsea TV presenter Jason Cundy expressed his worries, stating that the club would struggle to clinch a major trophy if they continue to depend on Sanchez as their primary goalkeeper.
Sanchez’s errors were particularly evident during Chelsea’s recent match against Brighton, where he was held responsible for the goals conceded.
Cundy shared his thoughts on talkSPORT, as reported by the Metro: “I think Robert Sanchez probably will be replaced at some stage.
He’s a good shot-stopper and there are times when he pulls off brilliant saves, but overall I don’t think Chelsea can win a major trophy with him in goal. That’s an area of concern.”
In spite of these criticisms, Maresca has publicly supported Sanchez, highlighting that mistakes are part of his coaching philosophy.
He has instructed his players to be courageous and to emphasize building play from the back, a strategy that naturally involves risks, particularly for the goalkeeper.
Maresca’s trust in his players underscores his confidence in their capacity to adapt to his tactical system.
While Chelsea’s attack, midfield, and defense have been functioning effectively under Maresca’s guidance, the goalkeeping situation continues to be a source of anxiety for both the coach and the supporters.
As long as the team maintains their winning momentum, Maresca is likely to exhibit patience with Sanchez, encouraging him to play with assurance and without fear.
However, if the results begin to decline, the manager may feel the need to reassess his team selections and contemplate changes to safeguard Chelsea’s ongoing success.
Maresca’s approach appears to be working overall, and the squad is benefiting from the newfound confidence and structure.
Nevertheless, the recurring concerns surrounding Sanchez could potentially overshadow the team’s achievements if they are not addressed.
The upcoming matches will be crucial for Chelsea as they look to solidify their place in the league while also aiming for a potential trophy this season.
The balance between maintaining a confident team spirit and ensuring reliable performances from key players like Sanchez will be essential in determining Chelsea’s prospects moving forward.
