Maresca Pleased to Face Full-Strength Chelsea in Conference League Semi-Final

Chelsea’s manager, Enzo Maresca, has confirmed that his squad is in peak condition as they prepare for the second leg of their Conference League semi-final against Djurgarden on Thursday, carrying a significant lead from the first match.

Last week, Chelsea dominated the Swedish team, clinching a 4-1 victory. Goals from Jadon Sancho and Noni Madueke gave them a 2-0 lead at half-time, followed by a brace from Nicholas Jackson.

“We have no fresh injury concerns,” Maresca stated in a press conference on Wednesday.

“This is positive for us. Everyone is fit, and (striker) Marc Guiu could potentially be included in the squad. We’re still assessing him, but he is getting closer to a return.”

The young Spanish forward, a summer signing from Barcelona and Chelsea’s leading scorer in the tournament with six goals, has been sidelined for the past three months due to a hamstring injury.

“Perhaps it’s best for Marc to have a few more training sessions, but he is very close to rejoining us,” Maresca continued.

Chelsea, who had to navigate through the playoffs to secure their spot in this European third-tier competition, last competed in a European final in 2021, when they triumphed over Manchester City 1-0 to secure their second Champions League title.

They now have the opportunity to make history by becoming the first club to win all three major European competitions if they can add the Conference League to their honours later this month.

“It’s crucial for us for various reasons. Primarily, we want this club to be winning trophies,” Maresca remarked.

When asked if winning the Conference League would signify a return to form for the team, the Italian manager suggested it would be an encouraging beginning.

“Securing a trophy is a statement, and one could say Chelsea is back on track,” Maresca asserted.

“If we are competing in the Conference, it reflects our current standing. The only trophy available to us is the Conference League. I believe this is a solid foundation to build upon.”