Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca believes his in-form midfield will be crucial in overcoming Newcastle United in Sunday’s pivotal Premier League clash at St James’ Park.
Maresca kept faith with the same starting XI for the second consecutive match last weekend, a rare move this season as Chelsea defeated champions Liverpool 3-1 in a commanding performance. It marked the first time in six months that the Blues named an unchanged line-up.
Key to their recent resurgence is the return of Romeo Lavia, who has now started back-to-back games for the first time since November following a lengthy injury layoff. Lavia’s presence has bolstered a midfield that also features Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo, both of whom are now hitting peak form. Caicedo’s efforts were recognised this week when he was named Chelsea’s Player of the Season.
Their improved midfield has provided a solid platform for Cole Palmer, who ended his goal drought against Liverpool and looked back to his best.
Maresca acknowledged the importance of maintaining consistency and praised the impact of his midfield trio ahead of the “huge” test against Newcastle, whose own European push has been driven by standout performances from Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali.
“Absolutely, yes,” Maresca said when asked if the midfield will be key. “Against Liverpool, we repeated the same starting XI for the first time in six months. That’s important. Romeo is back, Moises and Enzo are performing well, and Cole is regaining confidence.”
He added: “Newcastle have Bruno, Tonali, Murphy, Willock—each with different qualities. I expect a huge game.”
Chelsea sit fifth in the table, level on points with Newcastle but trailing only on goal difference. With Champions League qualification on the line, a win for either side would provide a major boost.
Maresca’s side has found form at a crucial time, winning six of their last nine league matches. They are also preparing for the UEFA Conference League final against Real Betis.
However, Maresca acknowledged that Sunday’s result won’t decide their fate entirely, with challenging fixtures remaining against Manchester United and Nottingham Forest.
Asked whether Newcastle’s open, attacking style could suit Chelsea’s game plan, Maresca said: “I hope so. We’ve played against low blocks and aggressive teams, and we’ve performed well in both situations.”
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