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

Chelsea’s manager, Enzo Maresca, has announced that his squad is in peak condition as they prepare for the second leg of their Conference League semi-final against Djurgarden this Thursday, holding a significant advantage from the initial encounter.

In the previous match, Chelsea decisively defeated the Swedish team 4-1, with goals from Jadon Sancho and Noni Madueke giving them a 2-0 lead at half-time, followed by a brace from Nicholas Jackson.

“There are no new injuries,” Maresca confirmed during a press conference on Wednesday.

“This is beneficial for us. Everyone is fit, and (striker) Marc Guiu may be included in the squad. We’re not entirely certain yet; we’ll make a decision regarding him, but he is getting closer to a return.”

The young Spanish forward, who transferred from Barcelona last summer and currently holds the title of Chelsea’s top scorer in the competition with six goals, has been sidelined for the last three months due to a hamstring injury.

“Perhaps it would be prudent for Marc to have a few more training sessions, but he is on the verge of rejoining us,” Maresca added.

Chelsea had to navigate through the playoffs to qualify for this third-tier European competition and were last seen in a European final in 2021, where they triumphed over Manchester City 1-0, securing their second Champions League title.

By securing the Conference League later this month, they could become the first club to win all three European competitions.

“This is crucial for us for numerous reasons, but primarily because we want this club to be victorious in trophies,” Maresca stated.

When asked if success in the Conference League would signify that the team is on the path back to form, the Italian coach suggested it would certainly be a positive initial step.

“Claiming a trophy is a statement, and then you could rightfully assert that Chelsea is back,” Maresca remarked.

“If we find ourselves in the Conference, it’s because that’s our current standing. (And) if you’re in the Conference, the only trophy available is the Conference. I believe it’s an excellent starting point.”