Maresca Explains Garnacho Absence After Last-Minute Change

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca revealed why Alejandro Garnacho didn’t play against Manchester United. A late injury changed the team’s substitution plans.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Maresca said Garnacho was ready to play, but defender Wesley Fofana needed to come off. This forced the manager to bring on Malo Gusto instead. Maresca said the change was tactical. It had nothing to do with Garnacho’s performance or readiness.

CHELSEA’S SEASON SO FAR

Chelsea‘s start to the 2025/26 Premier League has been up and down. They’re in 6th place with 8 points from 5 games. The team struggles with consistency and is now only one point ahead of Manchester United. While Garnacho joined from Manchester United this summer for £40 million, he has made five appearances, primarily off the bench, with one assist and no goals.

LOOKING AHEAD: WHAT’S NEXT?

Chelsea’s next match is a League Cup one against Lincoln before facing Brighton at home, who have drawn against Tottenham last weekend. A win could bring them closer to the Champions League spots if Arsenal or Tottenham drop points. Maresca is under pressure to utilize his attacking players, including Garnacho, as Chelsea seeks more goals and a climb up the table. Maresca, in fact, is already considering including Alejandro Garnacho in the starting lineup for the next match.