Maresca dismisses Chelsea disciplinary concerns after Benfica red card | OneFootball

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has played down concerns about his side’s discipline following their Champions League match against Benfica.

The Blues secured their first Champions League victory of the season with a 1-0 home triumph over Benfica.

However, the game was overshadowed by Joao Pedro’s sending off in the second half, his dismissal marking Chelsea’s third red card of the season.

Robert Sanchez and Trevoh Chalobah have also been dismissed in recent weeks, sparking questions over whether Chelsea have an ongoing discipline issue.

Maresca gives his view

Speaking after the match to Sky Sports, Maresca was quick to explain his position. “I always like to see one-vs-one,” he said.

He went on to highlight the nature of the previous dismissals.

“The Newcastle and Flamengo red cards were for bad actions, then Sanchez [vs Manchester United] is not for a bad action, it’s just because he wants to defend the goal, Chalobah [vs Brighton and Hove Albion] is because he wants to defend the goal.”

Maresca then turned his attention to Pedro’s dismissal, which he felt was harsh.

“Tonight, for the second yellow card, I don’t think Joao even touched the other player, but the dynamic of the action is a dangerous one.”

No wider concern for Chelsea

Despite the red card, the Chelsea boss made it clear he does not believe there is a bigger issue.

“For me personally, it’s not any concern or issue, it’s just a moment probably you need to take a different option and avoid.”

He added that sometimes in these situations, it is better to concede a chance rather than risk leaving the team short.

“Sometimes it’s better to concede the goal or the chance because then it’s 11-v-11.”

Chelsea will now hope to build on their first Champions League win of the campaign when they host Liverpool at Stamford Bridge in the Premier League.