Maresca highlights Chelsea’s ‘unjust’ fixture list as the reason for sidelining Palmer.

Enzo Maresca stated that Chelsea’s “unfair” fixture schedule compelled him to leave the out-of-form Cole Palmer out of the starting lineup for Sunday’s goalless draw against Brentford.

His team had 24 hours less preparation time compared to Brentford, following their 1-0 victory over Tottenham on Thursday.

Palmer, who had been struggling, was eventually brought on by Maresca after an hour, but he failed to find the back of the net, with his best attempt sailing over the crossbar during stoppage time.

Despite Palmer’s challenges in his second season at Chelsea—having not scored in his last 12 appearances across all competitions—Maresca was firm in attributing Palmer’s exclusion to the scheduling rather than form.

“We prepared for the match as required. We had a demanding game on Thursday night,” the Italian manager explained.

“It was a tough match, with bright sunshine and a dry pitch. They aimed to disrupt our tempo, but we did more than enough to secure the win. Unfortunately, we just couldn’t find the goal.”

“Since we played on Thursday night, not all players were at full fitness. The plan was to start in one way and wrap it up differently. We almost made it work. Overall, the transition from the first to the second half didn’t suffice for us to claim victory.”

“Do I think the scheduling was unfair? Absolutely, at this stage in the season. We attempted to adjust accordingly. Thursday’s match was quite taxing.”

“We’ve mentioned several times that this is a transitional period, which has been demanding compared to today’s performance. Indeed, 24 hours can make a significant difference.”

Brentford’s manager, Thomas Frank, concurred that the additional day of rest played a crucial role, as his team has also faced challenges with the fixture schedule this season.

Continuing on the subject, the Danish manager referred to the Club World Cup in June and July, which Chelsea will be part of, as “ridiculous”.

“It’s just another tournament. Will I be watching it? No chance!” he remarked.

For Chelsea, the next challenge is a UEFA Conference League quarter-final away to Legia Warsaw on Thursday, but Maresca maintains that their primary focus remains on qualifying for the Champions League.

“Absolutely, that’s of utmost importance,” he asserted. “Our goal is to elevate this club to its rightful place in the Champions League.”

“From day one, we’ve aimed high, and hopefully, we can finish there.”

Currently, Chelsea sits in fourth place in the Premier League, and a top-five finish appears likely to secure them Champions League football for next season.