Predictions
Enzo Maresca: “In Serie A, They’ll Follow You to the Bathroom” — Chelsea Boss Reflects on Return to Italy Ahead of Atalanta Clash
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has shared his thoughts and emotions ahead of the Champions League showdown with Atalanta, speaking openly about returning to his homeland and the tactical revolution currently underway in Serie A.
“Proud to Return Home With Chelsea”
For Maresca, travelling back to Italy as manager of one of the world’s biggest clubs is a moment filled with pride.
Also Read
“It’s always a pleasure to return to your country. To be back at a time like this, representing one of the biggest clubs in the world like Chelsea, I feel incredibly proud.”
The Italian coach has enjoyed a promising start to life at Chelsea, but the trip to Bergamo represents one of the toughest tests of the season.
Serie A’s Tactical Shift — “They’ll Follow You to the Toilet”
Maresca also surprised reporters with his blunt and humorous assessment of how Gian Piero Gasperini’s Atalanta has reshaped Italian football.
He highlighted the rise of aggressive man-marking systems and high pressing — a trademark of Gasperini — now widely adopted across the league.
“Serie A has changed dramatically. Many teams try to copy or at least replicate what Atalanta have been doing under Gasperini. Most teams play with five defenders. Man-marking has become so tight that if you go to the bathroom, they’ll follow you there. They’re everywhere.”
His comment drew laughter, but it also reflected the tactical complexity Chelsea will face in Bergamo.
What Maresca Misses Most About London? Simple: Food
Despite his pride in returning home, Maresca couldn’t resist joking about what he misses most from life in London.
“Food.”
The Chelsea boss admitted that cooking is his biggest passion away from the pitch — a hobby that relaxes him and brings him joy when he is not immersed in football.
Fixtures and Results
Transfers
Injuries
Chelsea Academy
Chelsea Women