Chelsea faced Wrexham in a pre-season friendly match at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California, on July 24, 2024. The match ended in a 2-2 draw, with Wrexham, a club from the fourth tier of English soccer, managing to hold the Premier League side.
Both of Wrexham's goals came as a result of defensive errors by Chelsea players. Luke Bolton and Jack Marriott capitalized on mistakes in possession, highlighting the challenges faced by Chelsea under the guidance of new head coach, Enzo Maresca, who emphasizes playing out from the back.
Maresca defended his team's playing style, acknowledging that conceding goals is part of the game but emphasizing the importance of scoring more than conceding. He expressed confidence in the team's progress despite the need for improvement.
Chelsea's fans will need to adjust to Maresca's possession-heavy approach, which contrasts with the more direct style they were accustomed to. The club's ownership, led by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, aims for Chelsea to have a distinct identity and a focus on developing young talent, with Maresca's appointment seen as a step towards achieving these goals.
While Maresca's coaching credentials are respected, some supporters may need time to embrace his tactical philosophy fully. The upcoming Premier League season will be a test for Chelsea as they navigate the transition under their new manager.
Despite the draw against Wrexham, Chelsea's journey under Maresca is just beginning, with the team expected to evolve and adapt as they progress through the season. The fans' reception to Maresca's methods and the team's performance will be crucial in shaping Chelsea's identity moving forward.
