Chelsea have closed the gap on Liverpool in the Premier League title race, now sitting just two points behind the Reds.
However, head coach Enzo Maresca remains measured in his outlook, cautioning fans against overestimating the team’s chances of lifting the title this season.
Liverpool’s slip-up came during a dramatic 2-2 draw against Fulham at Anfield, a match filled with controversy and setbacks.
The Reds found themselves reduced to 10 men early on when Andy Robertson was sent off in the 17th minute for denying a clear goalscoring opportunity.
Despite being a man down, Liverpool fought hard to salvage a draw, but this marked their second straight Premier League game without a win, giving Chelsea an opportunity to gain ground.
Taking advantage of Liverpool’s struggles, Chelsea secured a narrow 2-1 victory over Brentford.
This result not only narrowed the points gap but also intensified the pressure on the league leaders, although Liverpool still have a game in hand.
Despite the team’s improved standing, Maresca played down title ambitions, emphasizing the need for further development.
Speaking after the win, the Italian coach said:
“People can talk about the title, and the fans are right to dream, but if you ask me, I don’t think we’re ready.
No matter how many games we win, there are areas we still need to work on.
That being said, I’m happy the fans can dream, but we have to focus on improving.”
Chelsea’s triumph came with its own complications, as Marc Cucurella, who scored the opening goal in the 43rd minute, was sent off after the final whistle.
The Spaniard was shown a second yellow card for what was described as “adopting an aggressive attitude” toward an opponent. Brentford’s Kevin Schade was also booked for his involvement in the incident.
The Premier League Match Centre later confirmed Cucurella’s suspension, ruling him out of Chelsea’s upcoming clash against Everton.
Commenting on the situation, Maresca admitted he was unaware of the details.
“I spoke to the referee, and he told me the second yellow was for bad attitude,” Maresca explained.
“I didn’t see anything myself because I was celebrating with the coaching staff. I don’t know what happened.”
Cucurella’s absence presents another hurdle for Maresca as Chelsea prepare for the crucial encounter with Everton on Sunday.
While the win against Brentford provides a confidence boost, the coach faces the challenge of maintaining momentum in a competitive title race where even small setbacks could prove costly.
