Chelsea’s head coach, Enzo Maresca, has received a one-match touchline ban following a controversial incident during a Premier League match against Liverpool. The event occurred during the final moments of the match, when Maresca celebrated a last-minute winner by Estevao Willian.
Details of the Incident
During the match at Stamford Bridge, Maresca was shown a second yellow card by referee Anthony Taylor. This was due to his exit from the technical area to join his players in celebration. The Football Association (FA) stated that Maresca’s actions were deemed improper or abusive, leading to his dismissal shortly after the 96th minute.
Consequences of the Ban
Maresca has accepted the FA’s charge and the accompanying standard penalty, which includes a fine of £8,000. As a result, he will not coach from the sidelines when Chelsea faces Nottingham Forest in their upcoming match.
- Match Date: Chelsea vs. Nottingham Forest on Saturday
- Assistant Coach: Willy Caballero will take over in Maresca’s absence
- Previous Ban: This is Maresca’s second touchline ban since becoming a Premier League manager
- First Suspension: Occurred in April 2025 after a similar incident
The recent events highlight the challenges managers face in maintaining composure during high-pressure situations. As Chelsea prepares for the match without their head coach, the team will rely on Caballero’s experience and leadership on the sidelines.
