Overview
- Maresca confirmed he will continue to rotate, calling the season a marathon and saying it is impossible to use the same players for roughly 65 games.
- Chelsea have made 85 starting XI changes across 16 matches, including five straight games with at least seven alterations, the most in the Premier League.
- Wayne Rooney argued constant chopping and changing blocks on‑field relationships and urged senior players to question selections, which Maresca publicly rejected.
- The debate intensified after a 2-2 draw at Qarabag, where teenager Jorrel Hato was involved in both goals conceded and early injuries, including to Romeo Lavia, disrupted plans.
- Multiple outlets report the board’s backing remains firm and his job is not under immediate threat, with consistency and top-four targets still the benchmark as Wolves visit next.