Joe Cole: Chelsea have made progress under Maresca with or without UCL qualification
Former Chelsea star Joe Cole believes Enzo Maresca should be given time to develop his project at Stamford Bridge, regardless of whether the Blues secure Champions League qualification this season.
With two Premier League games remaining, Chelsea currently occupy a Champions League spot due to their superior goal difference, but a defeat to Newcastle United last Sunday has made the task more challenging.
Cole, speaking on The Dressing Room Podcast, said that even if Maresca misses out on Champions League football by a point, there has been progress and it would be unwise to change coaches again.
"This is a process," Cole said. "Chelsea's project – I think not next season but the season after – Chelsea have to be competing and challenging for all trophies, the Champions League and the Premier League."
Cole's comments suggest that Maresca's debut season should be judged on the progress made rather than the outcome, and that the Italian coach deserves a chance to build on the foundations he has laid.
Chelsea's upcoming fixtures include a crucial match against Manchester United on Friday night, followed by a trip to Nottingham Forest on the final day of the league campaign, and the Conference League final against Real Betis.
