Enzo Maresca was furious after Liam Delap's red card in Chelsea's 4-3 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers in the Carabao Cup this week.
It was unusual to see the Maresca express his frustration at Delap in the post-match press conference. Managers usually back their players in public and keep their criticism in the dressing room.
Maresca is clearly frustrated at the number of red cards that Chelsea are racking up. They have received five across all competitions this season, which is more than any other Premier League side.
Other culprits for Chelsea this season include Malo Gusto, who was sent off late on in a 3-0 win over Nottingham Forest. Joao Pedro received a red card in added time in the Blues' 1-0 victory against Benfica in the Champions League.
Delap, Gusto, and Pedro were fortunate that Chelsea won those games. However, with the Blues a goal up against Brighton & Hove Albion, Trevoh Chalobah was given his marching orders. The Seagulls then went on to win 3-1. Also, in Chelsea's clash with Manchester United, Robert Sanchez was shown a red card in the fifth minute. Maresca's side went on to lose that tie 2-1.
Chelsea need to eliminate their red card issue
The Blues have had great success under Maresca, winning the Europa Conference League and the Club World Cup. They have spent vast amounts building their roster, but are still a long way off being Premier League title challengers.
Chelsea are currently ninth in English soccer's top flight, and eight points off the leaders Arsenal. If the Blues are to challenge the likes of the Gunners for the title, then they need to be more disciplined. It is good that Maresca has a passionate side that is willing to get stuck in, but he needs to tone done his players' enthusiasm a bit.
Maresca could hark back to his playing days when advising his squad. He played for many teams, including Sevilla, Juventus, and West Bromwich Albion. In 490 games, Maresca was shown just five red cards, two second yellows, and 62 yellow cards. If he had not installed discipline in his game, then he would not have had a career that included winning Serie A and the UEFA Cup twice.
Chelsea managers are always under pressure. Despite Maresca's success at Stamford Bridge, there are constant rumors as to who could replace him. He must stamp out his team's discipline problem if he is to be their manager in the long term.