EPL: Maresca risks Chelsea protection after ‘worst 48 hours’ claim, says Rooney

Former Man United striker Wayne Rooney believes Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has put himself in a vulnerable position after making cryptic comments that appeared to criticise the club’s ownership.

As reported by BBC Sport on Monday, the Italian described the build-up to Saturday’s Premier League win over Everton as the “worst 48 hours” since his arrival at Stamford Bridge in June 2024.

Speaking on The Wayne Rooney Show on BBC Sounds, Rooney said the remarks were deliberate and clearly aimed at those running the club.

He suggested the Chelsea hierarchy would be well aware the comments were directed at them, adding that such public criticism rarely leads to protection if results start to slip.

Despite Chelsea sitting fourth in the Premier League, recent inconsistent form has raised questions, and Rooney contrasted Maresca’s situation with the public backing Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim previously received from co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

“It is something that’s clearly happened, whether it’s a disagreement or he feels his job is under pressure and he doesn’t feel it should be because of the two trophies he’s won and the points he’s picked up.

“I don’t feel like he’s a manager that will backtrack. He has got a passion about him and a drive about him. Whether he has heard things, like the club might want him out and he’s been proactive to go on the front foot, you don’t know why he’s done it. It’s very strange.

“I don’t think he’ll get the protection now he’s come out and done what he has done. That will be very difficult for the club to come and protect him, which is a shame,” Rooney said

Rooney stressed that managers must respect club owners, warning that Maresca’s words may count against him if Chelsea suffer further setbacks.

PUNCH Online had reported that Maresca described the period leading up to Saturday’s 2-0 victory over Everton as “the worst 48 hours” since he joined the club.

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