Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca found positives to hold onto despite his side’s disappointing defeat to Atalanta, singling out one of his players for an exceptional individual display while offering a balanced verdict on their Champions League prospects.

Although the result fell short of expectations, Maresca highlighted the attitude and technical quality of a key Chelsea star, noting that the player “set the standard” in a match where the team struggled to maintain control. According to the coach, the midfielder’s influence and intensity were “exactly what the team needed,” even as Chelsea failed to turn moments of pressure into goals.

Maresca admitted that Chelsea were punished for lapses in concentration but insisted that the standout performer showed leadership throughout the contest and tried to drag the team forward during difficult spells.

Maresca’s Two-Sided Champions League Verdict

Speaking after the final whistle, the Chelsea boss delivered a mixed appraisal of the team’s Champions League situation. On one hand, he acknowledged that the defeat makes their path “more complicated,” especially with crucial fixtures still ahead.

On the other hand, Maresca maintained that qualification remains firmly within reach — provided his squad reacts with urgency.

He emphasised that:

• Chelsea are still in contention,

• the remaining matches will demand total focus, and

• the team must show the same level of commitment displayed by the player he praised.

Maresca ended by calling for a stronger collective response, insisting that Chelsea “have enough quality to turn the situation around” if they match the effort shown by their standout performer.