2. Enzo Maresca’s decision to Start Robert Sánchez raises concerns
Ahead of the match, Enzo Maresca confirmed to the media that Robert Sánchez will start against Arsenal. This is concerning, considering Sánchez was previously dropped due to his poor performances. Despite that, he was inexplicably given starts in cup matches, where he continued to struggle.
For some reason, Maresca now acts as if Sánchez’s error-prone moments are behind him. There’s a reason Brighton had him as their third-choice goalkeeper. Twice, he undeservingly started the season as Chelsea’s No. 1 before he was rightfully dropped after costing the team points in multiple matches.
Yet Maresca wants to start him again. Arsenal players will be delighted to hear that. Last season, despite Chelsea taking a 2-0 lead, Sánchez gifted Arsenal a goal, contributing to their comeback.
Earlier this season, in the reverse fixture, he left his near post completely exposed, allowing Gabriel Martinelli to score with ease. For a manager who claimed to have watched hours of Chelsea’s previous season, his decision to trust Sánchez is baffling.