Chelsea have reaffirmed their support for Enzo Maresca’s rotation strategy following the 2–2 Champions League draw with Qarabag, despite the manager making seven changes to his starting lineup in Baku.
While the result drew questions from some pundits, the club hierarchy remains fully behind Maresca’s long-term approach. Senior figures view his rotation and workload management as essential to keeping the squad fresh across four competitions, especially after a shortened pre-season and a growing injury list.
Chelsea were without Pedro Neto, Cole Palmer, Levi Colwill and Benoît Badiashile, while Moisés Caicedo, Enzo Fernández and João Pedro have been carrying knocks. Maresca planned to rest Caicedo and Fernández, but an early injury to Roméo Lavia forced the former into action.
The Blues’ 5,000-mile trip to Azerbaijan added further complications, though there was no sense that Maresca underestimated Qarabag. He fielded experienced players such as Reece James, Marc Cucurella, and Robert Sánchez, but also gave opportunities to youngsters including Andrey Santos, Tyrique George, and Jamie Gittens, who were substituted at halftime.
Club insiders insist Maresca’s approach aligns perfectly with Chelsea’s broader philosophy: patience over short-termism. Giving emerging players time to develop under pressure is seen as vital, and Maresca’s close coordination with the sporting directors ensures the policy remains consistent.
Rotation, they believe, will prevent burnout and maintain availability for key moments. The manager’s careful handling of Reece James, who has remained fit for an extended spell, is cited as proof the strategy works.
Though results have varied when Maresca rotates—draws with Brentford and Qarabag, but wins over Ajax, Lincoln, and Wolves—Chelsea’s leadership views his system as a crucial investment in the club’s long-term success.
