Chelsea Manager Critiques Premier League Regulations

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has highlighted the ongoing defensive issues plaguing the team, attributing them to habits formed during Mauricio Pochettino's tenure, with the club conceding 12 goals in five pre-season matches. He aims to address the high defensive line that led to a club record of 63 goals conceded last season. Additionally, Maresca commented on the Premier League's financial regulations, which are forcing clubs, including Chelsea, to sell academy players like Conor Gallagher—who is set to join Atletico Madrid for £33 million—to comply with Profit and Sustainability Rules. He asserted that this issue affects all Premier League clubs and called for reforms to protect homegrown talent. Maresca expressed disappointment over the trend away from 'one-club men' in football, noting the difference compared to clubs in Italy. The situation is compounded by Chelsea's substantial spending under new ownership, which necessitates recouping funds through player sales.