At 3:00 am on August 23, in the second round of the 2025-26 Premier League season, Chelsea will play away against West Ham. Before the game, Blues coach Maresca attended the press conference and talked about some of the current situation of the team....
Social media updates about Fofana (deleted elements about Chelsea)
- I communicate with Fofana every day and he is very satisfied. He participated in all our training and he was very happy. He sat on the bench against Crystal Palace, but starting tomorrow he could get some time. We were very happy, he was very happy, and unfortunately, I didn’t know much about his social media updates.
Is Fofana supported by the team?
- Fofana is very happy, and we are very happy, and there is nothing to say other than that. As you said, insults are not a good thing. This is not a good thing for Fofana, for any player in the world, for anyone, but it's beyond our control.
Regarding the team's injury situation
- Lavia is still absent, and Badiacile is unable to play. Fofana is back, that's it.
About Jackson's recent situation
-He can play, but he won't be on the roster. We have two players at the forward position and something may happen before the transfer window is closed.
About Sterling, Chilville and Nkunku's future
-Nkunku is with us, but he is in the same situation as Jackson. Two other players are training separately to find solutions.
Regarding Joao Pedro and Drapp, can they play football together?
—Joao Pedro can play in five positions in the frontcourt, winger and shadow striker, both. The No. 9 position or Shadow Front is the most suitable position for him, and he can be competent for all our offensive positions.
Regarding the defensive choice
- I didn't think about giving up organizing an offense from the backcourt, but when the opponent presses at a high position, we can be more direct. We put Achimpon on the field in the last game, we are trying to find some internal solutions, and we'll see what's going on later.
About the match against West Ham
—a hard game. All Premier League games are tough. If you remember, last season’s home game was a very different game for us. Their defense is excellent – I expect they will do very well this time.
Regarding finding a central defender
- I have said that we are looking for an internal solution. We'll take a look, we're working on it. Again: We are looking for internal solutions and we will see if there is any progress.
About Jackson and Nkunku
-We will take a look and if they stay here, they will be with us. If not, it means they found a solution. I think it would be better if they found a solution because they would be happier.
About the state that is approaching 100%
- Of course, the longer we are, the better we will be. We need to adapt, we will go all out to compete, create opportunities, and we will improve day by day.
About Adarabioyu
—Adarabioyu can play tomorrow.
Is Anselmino the choice?
- Anselmino is training with us. He is a great kid and a good player. But he needs to go to the game, he is another player waiting for a solution.
