"When you change a player, they're never happy" - Maresca on Chelsea star's reaction to being substituted in Arsenal draw
Chelsea manager Enzo Marsesca has addressed Noni Madueke's reaction to being subbed off in the club's 1-1 draw against Arsenal on Sunday, November 10. The English winger seemingly didn't appreciate being taken off for Mykhaylo Mudryk in the 68th minute and was visibly upset after being withdrawn.
The 22-year-old joined the west London side in January 2023 from Dutch giants PSV Eindhoven in a reported €35 million deal. In 59 appearances for the Blues across competitions, Madueke has produced 14 goals and three assists.
Speaking about the winger's reaction to being subbed off in the London derby, Maresca told the press (via Football London):
"The problem is that when you change a player, they're never happy. We changed him. It's not only about Noni, it's about all the players. In that moment, we thought in a different way that Pedro with Timber would be more aggressive."
Madueke managed 32 touches against Arsenal and attempted four shots, but failed to test David Raya in the Gunners' goal.
"Very soon we will win these kind of games" - Chelsea boss optimistic after Arsenal draw
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has tipped his side to eventually win big games after his side drew 1-1 with Arsenal at Stamford Bridge on Sunday. The Italian tactician is in his first season with the west London side but has revitalized the team since he took control in the summer.
The Blues played out a thrilling 1-1 game at home against their London rivals. They now occupy the third spot on the Premier League table, nine points behind table-toppers Liverpool after 11 games.
Maresca was pleased with his team's performance and told the press (via Football London):
"Very happy. For me, we are behind this kind of club because they work every day with the last nine years with the same manager. It doesn't mean when we face them, we are not going to compete. We tried to win the game. Very soon we will win these kind of games."
Chelsea next face Leicester City on Saturday, November 23, after the international break and Maresca will be keen to get the better of his former side.