Chelsea Were Better Than Arsenal — Maresca Reacts After 1–1 Draw

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has praised his team’s display in their 1–1 draw with Premier League leaders Arsenal, insisting the Blues were the stronger side for large periods of the match.

Maresca pointed to Chelsea’s dominant opening 35 minutes, noting that their aggressive pressing in Arsenal’s half forced the Gunners into mistakes and left them vulnerable defensively.

The momentum shifted in the 38th minute when Moises Caicedo received a red card for a challenge on Mikel Merino. Despite going down to ten men, Chelsea held Arsenal to just eight shots—their lowest in a Premier League fixture this season.

Arsenal controlled more possession after the break due to their numerical advantage, yet Chelsea continued to create chances and pushed for a late winner.

Trevoh Chalobah had earlier put Chelsea in front, raising hopes of a notable victory over the league leaders.

Reflecting on the match, Maresca said:
“I think sometimes you have to be happy even with one point. For sure, the target was to win the game. Again, 11 vs 11, I think we were better than them. We managed the game, controlled the game, didn’t concede chances. The red card changed the dynamic but the way the players dealt with that was fantastic.”

He further praised the team’s determination, especially given Arsenal’s status as the top team in both the Premier League and Champions League.
“When it was 11 vs 11, we were better than them. Ten men changed the dynamic but the effort from the players was outstanding,” he added.

Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez and midfielder Reece James were standout performers. Sanchez made vital saves and commanded his area well, while James delivered a strong, high-energy display in midfield.

Maresca said:
“Robert was very good. When you are with ten players against Arsenal, for sure if you want some point or win the game you need some special performances, like Robert’s and Reece’s. We are very happy with Robert’s performance. Reece’s performances have been top.”

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