Chelsea’s Carabao Cup run ended abruptly with a 2-0 defeat to Newcastle United at St. James' Park. Alexander Isak scored against Chelsea again, while Axel Disasi added to their woes with an own goal. Eddie Howe’s side could have easily scored four or five more if not for some close calls. Next, Chelsea face Manchester United at Old Trafford in the Premier League.
Key Takeaways from the Match
1. Enzo Maresca’s Questionable Squad Selection
Since last Sunday, Chelsea has enjoyed a fully fit squad, free of injuries and suspensions. Yet Enzo Maresca opted to leave out notable players such as Pedro Neto, Nicolas Jackson, Reece James, Malo Gusto, Moises Caicedo, Wesley Fofana, and Romeo Lavia for the fixture—decisions that raised eyebrows. Jadon Sancho’s absence due to illness was particularly disappointing, especially as he now misses the chance to face his parent club, Manchester United, on Sunday, marking his fourth consecutive match without game time.
While it’s understandable to rest players like Lavia, James, and Fofana, who are recovering from injuries, the decision to leave out several others was puzzling. Top teams regularly field their strongest lineups midweek for competitions, and Chelsea have the depth to rotate effectively. The absence of attacking options on the bench, with only Noni Madueke and Cole Palmer available, left Maresca with limited choices to change the game.
Adding to the confusion was the choice to start Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall on the right wing. With a surplus of attackers available, Maresca’s decision to place a midfielder, lacking the pace or skill for that role, seemed baffling. This suggested either a lack of respect for Newcastle or indifference toward the Carabao Cup.