Marc Cucurella’s second-half header earned Chelsea a nervy 1–0 win over Manchester United on Friday night, taking the Blues within touching distance of Champions League qualification.
Enzo Maresca’s side are now fourth in the Premier League and need just a final-day victory at Nottingham Forest on May 25 to seal a return to Europe’s top table after a two-year absence.
Despite the upward trajectory, Maresca pushed back against external criticism of his youthful squad, warning that expectations remain tethered to a bygone era.
“People still think Chelsea is the same Chelsea as years ago. It’s not,” the Italian said. “We had six academy players in the squad. Jackson was suspended. Years ago, if Drogba was out, Costa or Torres was playing. This is a completely different Chelsea.”
The win also keeps Chelsea in the hunt for silverware, with a UEFA Conference League final against Real Betis still to come.
Under new ownership, the Blues have spent over £1 billion rebuilding the squad, but Maresca urged patience, insisting his team are moving in the right direction.
