Manager Enzo Maresca has raved over Chelsea’s performance in their 8-0 triumph of Noah in Thursday’s UEFA Conference game.
Still fresh from their 1-1 draw with Manchester United, the Blues hit the Armenian side for eight at Stamford Bridge.
A brace from Christopher Nkunku and Joao Felix cemented the historic win as the two-time European kings moved to the top of the tournament’s log.
Speaking to the media after the result, the tactician is impressed his boys’ character stating the outcome shows the club’s seriousness.
“The players once again showed how professional and serious they are,” Maresca was quoted by Chelsea website.
“It’s easy to sleep or fall down in this type of game. Football is full of surprises. What I asked them before the game was to show how serious we are, how professional, and they showed that.
“If you remember, in the first five minutes we conceded a chance. If we had conceded, the game changes. You always have to be focused. You cannot drop. The way to show respect to them is not to underestimate them.
“It’s an important message for all of us. If you are not ready mentally, you can drop easily against any team. The most important thing is that we are serious. This is what we needed to show.”
Maresca also commented on the debutants Tyrique George, Samuel Rak-Sakyi, and Marc Guiu – who scored his first Chelsea goal.
He added: “Tyrique was very good. I said before the game probably with young players sometimes it’s better to tell them the day before so they can prepare, but with some it’s better to tell them at the end so they don’t get nervous.
“We knew already Tyrique was going to start, so I just told him two hours before the game. He was very good.
“Also Sam Rak-Sakyi when he was inside was good, and I’m very happy for Marc Guiu that he scored. He hasn’t got many minutes with us this season, but he’s working hard. They are all 17,18, 19, it’s important.”
Shina Oludare is a distinguished sports journalist and managing editor, renowned for his comprehensive coverage of African football. His dedication to elevating African sports on the global stage has earned him widespread respect, along with numerous accolades for his contributions. A graduate of the LaLiga Business School in Madrid, Oludare’s passion for sports and his influential work in African football journalism have established him as a leading figure in the industry.
