Enzo Maresca Explains Marc Guiu’s Absence For Chelsea

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca explained that leaving Marc Guiu out of the squad was a tactical decision, not because of an injury. He wants to manage squad confidence and opportunities.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Marc Guiu was not in Chelsea’s matchday squad for their recent Premier League game. Maresca said it was his own choice and not because of fitness or injury. He explained, “We know Marc from last year. But in this moment, one of them was out from the squad… I wanted to give George a bit of confidence. Against Fulham, he did well and he was okay. The season is so long.” Maresca wanted to encourage George’s development after his good performance against Fulham.

MARESCA’S SQUAD DILEMMA

Marc Guiu joined Chelsea from Barcelona in 2024 and scored 6 goals in 16 appearances last season. However, competition for forward positions has increased. Chelsea recently signed Emmanuel Emegha for the summer of 2026, as per reports, and already brought in Liam Delap. Guiu was loaned to Sunderland earlier this season, but Chelsea recalled him due to injuries to other strikers. With Joao Pedro a doubt due to injury and Nicolas Jackson on loan at Bayern Munich, Guiu’s chances are limited. He is currently the third-choice option. The need for Maresca to rotate and build morale among young players like George shows the pressure on all forwards to perform when given the opportunity.

CHELSEA’S SEASON AND WHAT’S NEXT

Chelsea started the Premier League season strongly and are currently sitting in fifth place after four matches. They are just four points behind third-place Arsenal and Tottenham. Guiu must impress in the limited minutes he receives, or he risks falling further down the pecking order next season with Emegha’s arrival. Chelsea will also face Bayern Munich in the Champions League next week, adding intrigue as former Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson could play against them. Each decision made by Maresca will be closely watched as Chelsea navigate a busy schedule and look to maintain their strong start both domestically and in Europe.