Enzo Maresca expressed sympathy for Ange Postecoglou after Chelsea’s emphatic 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest on Saturday ultimately cost the Australian his job.
Postecoglou’s tenure came to an abrupt end shortly after the final whistle, with Nottingham Forest confirming his dismissal just 39 days into his reign, the shortest spell of any permanent manager to depart mid-season.
Goals from Josh Acheampong, Pedro Neto, and Reece James earned the Blues a comfortable victory at the City Ground, moving them up to fourth place in the Premier League standings.
Speaking to beIN Sports after the match, Maresca admitted he felt for his counterpart, acknowledging the brutal nature of football management.
“I feel sorry for Ange. But this business is about winning games. For all of us, it’s the same consequence if we don’t win games.
“Chelsea were without Maresca in the dugout due to a touchline ban, but the Blues managed to find their way past Forest courtesy of a superb second half performance.
“The first half, we struggled. They were good; we made mistakes where we gave them a boost. In the second half, we were much better, controlled the game very well,” Maresca said.
“We needed to make the changes in this moment, protect players – some of the changes were already planned. They are all happy. For the three points, we are six, seven of our main players out. It shows the compromise from all of them.
Maresca’s side are back in action on Wednesday when they host Ajax in the Champions League.
Olaoluwa is a dedicated sports writer and passionate football enthusiast with two years of experience. Known for his keen analysis and commitment to the game, his work reflects a deep love for football, blending strategic insight with the emotional moments that make it a global passion. He is focused on honing his skills and consistently aims to inspire and engage readers through every article he writes.
