Overview
- Enzo Maresca said it is impossible to use the same players across roughly 65 games, describing the campaign as a marathon that requires rotation.
- Chelsea have made 85 starting‑XI changes across 16 matches, including five straight games with at least seven alterations.
- Wayne Rooney urged Chelsea’s leadership group, including captain Reece James, to question the selection policy, arguing constant changes hinder on‑field relationships.
- Maresca defended selections after the 2-2 draw at Qarabag, lamenting “silly goals” conceded and a lack of clinical finishing while noting teenage defender Jorrel Hato’s learning curve.
- Reporting indicates the sporting leadership remains aligned with Maresca’s approach, citing a congested calendar after the Club World Cup and the need to manage players carrying knocks such as Moisés Caicedo and Enzo Fernández.