Frank Leboeuf Sends Strong Warning to Enzo Maresca Over Chelsea’s Risky Play
Former Chelsea defender and outspoken pundit Frank Leboeuf has not held back in his recent critique of the club, but for once, he’s been forced to acknowledge their impressive form under new manager Enzo Maresca. Leboeuf, however, couldn’t resist highlighting a key issue from Chelsea’s recent 4-2 victory over Brighton—one that has left him concerned about the team’s style of play.
In his analysis of the match, Leboeuf’s criticism focused on Chelsea’s insistence on playing out from the back, a strategy that has sparked a number of risky moments during their matches this season. “I have one [piece of] advice for the two coaches of these teams: stop playing from the back, guys! You don’t have the personnel for that,” Leboeuf said during his appearance on ESPN.
Both Chelsea and Brighton had moments in the match where their desire to build play from deep in their own half nearly backfired. Chelsea, in particular, were guilty of costly errors, with both goals they conceded stemming from risky attempts to pass their way out of pressure. The second goal, in particular, saw goalkeeper Robert Sanchez inadvertently pass to a tightly marked teammate, leading to Brighton’s easy turnover and goal.
Sanchez later apologized for his mistake, but it seems this isn’t a one-time issue. Chelsea’s dedication to the “play from the back” philosophy is firmly backed by Maresca. In a post-match press conference, the Italian tactician stood by his approach, brushing aside the criticism from pundits like Leboeuf.
“I said to Robert [Sanchez] we will concede 10 more goals like the second one because it is the way we want to play,” Maresca explained confidently, making it clear that his commitment to this style would not waver.
While Leboeuf may continue to sound the alarm, Maresca remains resolute in his belief that the strategy will pay off in the long run. Only time will tell if Chelsea’s gamble will yield more goals in their favor—or cost them in crucial moments.
Frank Leboeuf Sends Strong Warning to Enzo Maresca Over Chelsea’s Risky Play
