Chelsea 1-0 Arsenal (Agg: 2-3): Dramatic Stoppage-Time Goal Not Enough as Blues Exit Champions League Quarter-Finals Amid Controversial Finale at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea Women produced a spirited performance in front of a passionate Stamford Bridge crowd but were eliminated from the UEFA Women’s Champions League at the quarter-final stage despite a 1-0 victory in the second leg against Arsenal on Wednesday evening. Arsenal progressed 3-2 on aggregate.

Sjoeke Nüsken’s injury-time strike gave the Blues a late lifeline and sparked wild celebrations among the home supporters, but it ultimately proved insufficient to overturn the deficit from the first leg. The match will, however, be remembered for a fiery finale that saw head coach Sonia Bompastor sent off following an extraordinary incident involving Arsenal’s Katie McCabe.

With the clock ticking deep into stoppage time and Chelsea pressing for a second goal that would have forced extra time, McCabe appeared to deliberately pull the hair of Chelsea forward Alyssa Thompson, dragging her to the ground. Referee Frida Klarlund waved play on, and despite the availability of VAR, no review was undertaken, and no sanction was issued to the Arsenal player.

Bompastor, visibly incensed by the non-decision, protested strongly on the touchline. She was shown a first yellow card for her protests, followed moments later by a second yellow – and subsequent red card – after continuing to voice her frustration. The French coach was ordered from the technical area in the dying seconds of a match already charged with high emotion.

Speaking after the match, a clearly frustrated Sonia Bompastor said:  

“I had one of my players’ hair pulled. For me, it is clearly a red card for the Arsenal player. I don’t understand why VAR didn’t check that situation. My players deserve better. They deserve more respect. If the VAR is not able to intervene in that moment, I don’t know why we have VAR.”

The 31-year-old McCabe later posted on social media claiming she was “genuinely reaching for the shirt” and offered her opponent “full respect,” but video footage of the incident has sparked widespread debate and condemnation across football circles.

### Match Summary

Chelsea dominated large periods of the contest and showed tremendous character to push until the final whistle despite trailing on aggregate. Nüsken’s composed finish in the 90+ minute provided a moment of hope, but Arsenal’s defensive resilience and earlier first-leg advantage proved decisive.

The result ends Chelsea’s European campaign for this season, a disappointing outcome for a side that has dominated domestically in recent years. However, the performance – particularly in the second half – demonstrated the squad’s fighting spirit and quality as they now refocus on domestic objectives.

### Club Statement

Chelsea Football Club fully supports Sonia Bompastor and her reaction to the incident. Player safety and the integrity of the game must remain paramount. We expect UEFA to thoroughly review the refereeing decisions and VAR protocol applied in this match.

We congratulate Arsenal on their progression and thank our supporters for creating an electric atmosphere at Stamford Bridge. The club will now turn its attention to the remainder of the Barclays Women’s Super League campaign, where we continue to fight on all fronts.

“I don’t understand why the VAR cannot check that… the refereeing is not good enough.” 🗣️

Sonia Bompastor reacts to the incident involving Katie McCabe pulling Alyssa Thompson’s hair and the controversial decision not to show a red card 😳 pic.twitter.com/cxrO4kKRBj

— W Golazo (@WGolazo) April 1, 2026

Chelsea Opens Talks with Gonçalo Ramos’ Representatives Ahead of Potential Summer Move for PSG Striker

Chelsea has opened preliminary talks with the representatives of Paris Saint-Germain striker **Gonçalo Ramos**, as the Blues explore a surprise summer transfer for the 24-year-old Portuguese international.

The move would see Chelsea target a proven goalscorer to bolster their attacking options ahead of the 2026/27 season. However, the club faces significant competition for the player’s signature, with several Premier League and European sides also monitoring the situation closely.

Ramos, who joined PSG from Benfica in a deal worth up to €80 million in 2023, has found first-team opportunities limited under manager Luis Enrique despite his undoubted quality. The former Benfica academy graduate has expressed a desire for more regular playing time, particularly with the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the horizon. Sources indicate he is open to a fresh challenge in the Premier League.

Chelsea’s sporting directors, including Paul Winstanley and Laurence Stewart, have initiated contact with Ramos’ camp and PSG as part of their proactive summer recruitment planning. The Blues have long admired the striker, having tracked him prior to his move to Paris and revisiting their interest in previous windows.

**Key facts on Gonçalo Ramos:**

- 24 years old (born 20 June 2001)

- Portugal international with experience at major tournaments

- Versatile centre-forward capable of leading the line or playing off a focal point

- Contract with PSG runs until June 2028

- Potential transfer value in the region of £50-70 million, depending on structure and add-ons

A senior Chelsea source said:  

“We are always looking to strengthen the squad with high-quality, ambitious players who fit our profile. Gonçalo has shown his potential at the highest level, and we believe he could thrive in the Premier League. As with all targets, we will proceed carefully and professionally while exploring all options available to us.”

Chelsea are not alone in their interest. Newcastle United have also made contact, while reports suggest other clubs across Europe, including sides in Germany and Italy, are monitoring Ramos’ availability. The player is understood to be keen on testing himself in England, where the physicality and intensity of the league could suit his powerful, direct style.

The potential signing would align with Chelsea’s strategy of blending experienced international talent with the club’s strong academy and multi-club network. It comes as the Blues continue to build a competitive squad capable of challenging on all fronts under the current ownership.

Chelsea Football Club will provide no further comment on ongoing transfer speculation at this stage, in line with standard policy. Any developments will be communicated through official channels.

Chelsea Football Club Anticipates Record Revenue of £700 Million for 2025/26 Season

Chelsea Football Club today confirms it is on track to generate record revenue of approximately **£700 million** in the 2025/26 financial year, marking a substantial increase from the £490.9 million reported for the year ended 30 June 2025.

This projected milestone reflects the Club’s continued commercial momentum, strengthened on-pitch performance, and strategic investments made under the ownership of Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital. The anticipated growth positions Chelsea among the world’s highest-earning clubs and underscores the long-term sustainability of the Club’s financial model.

Key drivers behind the projected £700 million revenue include:

- **Broadcasting income**: A significant uplift is expected from sustained participation in the UEFA Champions League, combined with the Premier League’s new domestic and international broadcast deals. The Club’s recent success in the FIFA Club World Cup has also enhanced global visibility and associated media rights value.

- **Commercial revenue**: Continued expansion of global sponsorships, merchandising, and licensing agreements. New and renewed partnerships with blue-chip brands, alongside growth in digital and e-commerce platforms, are delivering double-digit percentage increases.

- **Matchday revenue**: Strong demand for tickets at Stamford Bridge, supported by a loyal global fanbase and improved non-matchday events, including stadium tours, corporate hospitality, and community initiatives. Capacity utilisation and premium seating options continue to perform well despite ongoing stadium redevelopment considerations.

- **Other income streams**: Prudent player trading activity and operational efficiencies are supporting overall financial health, while the Club remains fully compliant with Premier League Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) and UEFA regulations.

Commenting on the outlook, **Todd Boehly, Chairman and Co-Owner**, said:  

“We set out to build a modern, sustainable football club that can compete at the very highest level both on and off the pitch. Reaching £700 million in revenue next season is a clear demonstration of that strategy in action. It reflects the hard work of our players, coaching staff, and commercial teams, as well as the incredible support of our fans worldwide. This is not a one-off figure — it is the foundation for sustained success and future investment in the squad and infrastructure.”

**Paul Winstanley, Co-Sporting Directors**, added:  

“Our focus remains on building a competitive, high-performing squad while operating within a responsible financial framework. The revenue growth we are projecting gives us the platform to make smart, long-term decisions in the transfer market and academy development.”

The Club’s 2024/25 financial results, published earlier today, showed revenue of £490.9 million — the second-highest in Chelsea’s history — despite a one-off pre-tax loss driven by investment in the squad and a period of business rationalisation. The Board is confident that the 2025/26 projections represent a return to normalised, growing profitability.

Chelsea Football Club remains committed to its three-pillar strategy: elite on-pitch performance, commercial excellence, and positive community impact. The Club will continue to invest in world-class facilities, women’s football, and grassroots programmes while maintaining strict financial discipline.

John Obi Mikel predicts a Premier League trophy for Enzo Maresca

 Speaking on the Obi One podcast, John Obi Mikel is still furious about Enzo Maresca’s exit, claiming that he could have won the Premier League for Chelsea in a couple of years.

“They’ve done that with Enzo Maresca. Right now, if you’ve given Enzo Maresca with this team another couple of years, I would have seen us going somewhere in terms of winning the Premier League.

“But right now the way he stands with the changes that we’ve made, we’ve taken one step forward and now we’ve taken 10 steps backwards.”

Of course, the losing streak didn’t help Maresca’s situation, but at least Chelsea had an identity and were defensively sound for the most during his tenure.

Marc Cucurell has already voiced his concerns over Enzo Maresca’s departure.

“We knew what Maresca wanted from us. Winning a title like the Club World Cup also helps, strengthens the bond, and you create great relationships during the celebrations.

“When a manager gives you that confidence and offers you a platform to fight for titles, you’d die for him.

“The moment Maresca left, it had a big impact on us. These are decisions taken by the club. If you asked me, I would not have made this decision.

“To make a change like that, the best thing is to wait until the end of the season. You would give everyone, the players and the new manager, time to get ready, have a full pre-season.”

vBarcelona stance revealed as Chelsea learn Jules Kounde price tag

 According to Mundo Deportivo, Barcelona feel that they may struggle to reach Kounde’s demands and could have to agree on a sale for the defender. Having been rejected in 2022, Chelsea remain interested.

It is claimed that an offer of £70m would be impossible to reject should such a bid surface for the former Sevilla star. Kounde remains contracted to Barcelona until the summer of 2030, but his future is in doubt.

Chelsea are not the only Premier League side looking to sign Kounde, however. Liverpool and Man City are also keen on Kounde and are considering bids to bring the defender to the Premier League.

In the summer of 2022, Todd Boehly was preparing for his first transfer window after taking over from Roman Abramovich. Despite having little experience, he had targeted Kounde as a possible signing.

Thomas Tuchel spoke with Kounde, but failed to convince the versatile defender to join Chelsea over a move to Barcelona. Speaking to L’Equipe shortly after his move to Barca, Kounde confirmed talks.

He said: “I spoke with Tuchel and I also felt that he wanted me to come but I simply preferred Xavi’s speech.” Now, Chelsea may have a second bite at the cherry if they are willing to part with £70m.

It is unclear what Kounde himself thinks about a move away from Barcelona, but after four years at the Nou Camp, it might be that he wants to try something new, especially if he cannot be tempted to stay.

Chelsea Midfielder Cole Palmer Endures Difficult Evening for England in 1-0 Defeat to Japan

Chelsea midfielder Cole Palmer had a night to forget as England suffered a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Japan in an international friendly at Wembley Stadium on Tuesday evening.

The 23-year-old, starting in the No. 10 role, was substituted in the 59th minute as manager Thomas Tuchel looked to change the momentum of a match that saw Japan claim a historic first-ever victory over England on English soil.

Japan took the lead in the 23rd minute through Brighton's Kaoru Mitoma, who finished clinically following a swift counter-attack. Palmer was dispossessed in midfield, allowing Mitoma to surge forward and combine with Keito Nakamura before slotting the ball past Jordan Pickford.

Despite showing flashes of his usual creativity early on, Palmer struggled to impose himself on the game, with England failing to register a shot on target until after his withdrawal alongside Phil Foden. Tuchel later acknowledged that both attacking players "struggled to make a difference" in a system that lacked the expected width and penetration.

The defeat marks England's second international of the March window and comes as Tuchel prepares to finalise his squad for the upcoming World Cup. With Harry Kane absent, the Three Lions looked laboured, and the home crowd made their frustration known at full time.

In very unlikely fashion, Cole Palmer failed to register a single successful dribble, failing on both occasions. He was also dispossessed once, which led to the goal.

As well as this, Palmer had 40 touches, a passing accuracy percentage of 77, created two chances, three crosses and failed his only accurate long ball attempt.

On the defensive side of things he made just one recovery, won two out of five duels and was fouled on two occasions.

A slightly concerning performance for those who hoped Cole Palmer had return to his best after an impressive cameo against Uruguay last time out.

England will now turn their attention to the next phase of preparation, with Tuchel expected to name his World Cup squad in May.

Marc Cucurella tells Chelsea owners they need to sign more experienced players

 In an interview with The Athletic, the left-back said: “I understand this is part of the club’s policy, and that they want to take this direction — signing young players and looking to the future. But, for all of us who are still here and want to win big things, moments like this [PSG defeat] make you feel discouraged.

“We have a good core of players. The foundations are there. But to fight for major trophies such as the Premier League or the Champions League, you need more. Signing young players only might complicate achieving those goals. Against PSG, we lacked players that had gone through situations like that.

“You need time as well, and I know the young players are the ones that will have the experience in the future. But you need to find the balance between both worlds.”

There is nothing to suggest that Chelsea are going to change their transfer policy despite what happened in the Champions League.

They have a plan and clearly want to stick to it, but it could have ramifications. The team have just not been able to compete in the Premier League, and that is unlikely to change until more experience is added to the squad.

Chelsea are already at risk of missing out on the top five this season, with Liam Rosenior’s men currently sitting in sixth place in the Premier League table.

Cucurella has not ruled out a move to Barcelona in the future. If things do not improve, it would not be a shock to see the Spaniard and others depart.

Source: THE CHELSEA CHRONICLES

Cobalt Roar share how much Chelsea paid Enzo Maresca after his departure

 Officially, Maresca resigned as Chelsea manager on New Year’s Day. But realistically, the Italian left as he felt his position had become untenable, and the club’s hierarchy was probably going to sack him anyway.

Of course, Maresca has since been replaced by Liam Rosenior, who himself is under huge pressure after losing seven of 19 matches in all competitions. Three defeats to Arsenal and two more against PSG.

Maresca eventually left his post as Chelsea manager on New Year’s Day, this year. Calum McFarlane replaced him as interim boss, before Rosenior was given the reins after impressing at Strasbourg.

According to The Sun, shortly after his sacking, Maresca had waived a £14m pay-off due to resigning as manager. Had he been sacked by the Chelsea board, the Blues would have had to pay a huge figure.

But according to CalcioMercato, an Italian source, Maresca was given a £4.3m payout by Chelsea. It is claimed that Maresca was on a similar amount in terms of a yearly wage, and it may have been agreed.

The reality is that Chelsea were struggling with Maresca in charge, and the former Leicester manager’s position was becoming untenable. Yet, this is a manager who delivered two trophies while at Chelsea.

Some players were not happy with the decision to oust the manager, and it is a decision that continues to frustrate some of the Chelsea squad. Speaking this week, Marc Cucurella thinks it was a mistake.

“The moment Maresca left, it had a big impact on us. These are decisions taken by the club. If you asked me, I would not have made this decision,” he said. At least, Maresca didn’t go without a contribution.

Marc Cucurella: Reece James is the world’s strongest full-back

 Reece James’ hamstring injury is a massive blow, and it was exacerbated by Trevoh Chalobah’s ankle problem against PSG. Perhaps Marc Cucurella’s latest claim explains why Chelsea are struggling.

Without James, it is clear that Chelsea are far worse. Not only do the Blues lack his quality on the ball and his versatility in both defence and in midfield, but the 26-year-old’s leadership. Also, maybe his strength?

Cucurella was asked by The Athletic’s TikTok page to create his perfect full-back, and when it came to strength, the Spanish defender picked James as the physically strongest full-back currently in football.

The former Brighton defender picked himself for tackling and aerial duels, while Dani Carvajal was chosen for leadership. Trent Alexander-Arnold got his vote for crossing, and Alejandro Balde for speed.

When club football returns, Chelsea take on League One side Port Vale in the FA Cup, the first time the two sides have done battle in 97 years. Realistically, James was always likely to be rested for it anyway.

Then, Chelsea take on Man City at Stamford Bridge and that is a game Rosenior would love to have James available to play in. But reports say that Chelsea are hoping James will return against Manchester United.

That means another two games missed by James, but in the grand scheme of things, it is not the end of the world. James will be available – fingers crossed – for six of Chelsea’s remaining seven league games.

Romeo Lavia claims Chelsea’s evolution has been ‘unbelievable’

 Chelsea are not doing well in the Premier League at the moment, losing back-to-back games to Everton and Newcastle United before the international break.

The Blues sit in sixth place in the Premier League table, meaning they are set to miss out on Champions League qualification as things stand.

Despite all of that, Lavia is pleased with the direction that the club are heading in and has even gone as far as to say that the evolution he has seen since joining has been “unbelievable”.

When asked what has surprised him the most at Chelsea, Lavia told Chelsea’s official club website: “The evolution of the club. In such a short space of time, it has been unbelievable.

“There has been constant evolution in the levels on the pitch, off the pitch, the standards and everything has been going up, up, up. It is not going to stop. We are going to keep going up!”

The 22-year-old is fit again and started in the 3-0 loss to Everton so should be available when club football returns.

Lavia was definitely one positive from the Everton defeat. The Belgian played well that day, and hopefully he can build on that performance in his next outing.

Source: The Chronicles

Enzo Fernandez causing tension at Chelsea after new comments

 

Chelsea midfielder Enzo Fernández has created fresh unease within the club after a series of public comments made while on international duty with Argentina, raising questions over his long-term commitment to Stamford Bridge.

The 25-year-old World Cup winner, who joined Chelsea from Benfica in a club-record £107 million deal in 2023, spoke openly in recent interviews about his preference for living in Madrid, describing the Spanish capital as similar to his home city of Buenos Aires. When asked which city he would like to live in besides London, Fernández replied: “Madrid… I like Madrid very much… it’s similar to Buenos Aires. Players live where they want. I get by in English, but I’d be more comfortable in Spanish.”

These remarks come shortly after he publicly criticised Chelsea’s decision to part ways with former head coach Enzo Maresca in January 2026, stating that the mid-season change “hurt us a lot” and left the squad without the clear identity and order that Maresca had established.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the comments have contributed to growing tension around Fernández’s future at the club. Negotiations over a new contract extension have stalled, with no agreement currently in place despite earlier discussions. Fernández’s existing deal runs until June 2032.

The Argentine international’s latest comments have drawn a strong reaction from sections of the Chelsea fanbase, many of whom feel the repeated public speculation is unhelpful at a critical stage of the season. Manager Liam Rosenior had previously defended Fernández after earlier remarks, attributing them to translation issues, but the latest statements have reignited debate.

Fernández has previously issued apologies to fans and teammates following controversial incidents, and he remains a key figure in Chelsea’s midfield alongside Moisés Caicedo. However, his performances have come under scrutiny amid the ongoing uncertainty.

Chelsea have not issued an official comment on the situation, maintaining their policy of not discussing individual contract matters or reacting to speculation. The club continue to monitor the squad’s focus as they navigate the final weeks of the Premier League campaign.

Real Madrid have long been linked with Fernández, though no formal interest has been confirmed at this stage.

A source close to the situation described the atmosphere as one of mild frustration rather than outright crisis, but acknowledged that repeated public comments from senior players can disrupt squad harmony.

Chelsea considering Lamine Camara for midfield

 Since their takeover, Chelsea have really tapped into the French market and could do so again as they eye AS Monaco’s Lamine Camara.

According to CaughtOffside, Chelsea want to “rejuvenate” their midfield and are currently monitoring Camara, meaning that he could become a serious option for them this summer.

However, the midfielder will not come cheap. It is thought that Monaco could demand up to €75m (£65m) for his signature.

Chelsea recently signed Mamadou Sarr and Emanuel Emegha from sister club Strasbourg, who play in France. The former is now part of Liam Rosenior’s squad, but the latter does not officially join until the summer.

Under Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, the Blues have also brought in the likes of Malo Gusto, Benoit Badiashile and Axel Disasi from French clubs.

Disasi could join West Ham United permanently after falling out of favour at Stamford Bridge. If Camara does move to west London, he will be hoping that his spell there goes much better than Disasi’s.

Lamine Camara’s stats in Ligue 1 this season

Chelsea scouts will be impressed with what they have seen from Camara this term. The 22-year-old is yet to score in Ligue 1, but he has managed to register four assists in 18 appearances, which is not bad for a young midfielder.

The area Camara has really shone in, though, is winning the ball back. According to WhoScored, the Senegalese footballer is making 2.3 tackles and 1.9 interceptions per game, which are the highest averages in Monaco’s squad.

Ultimately, Camara is proving to be a good ball-winner, but whether Chelsea need that when they already have Moises Caicedo, Andrey Santos and Dario Essugo is up for debate

Source: The Chronicles 

Teddy Sharman-Lowe deserves a chance against Port Vale

 However, this commitment to youth has been a double-edged sword. While the Blues have marched into the FA Cup quarter-finals, their lack of know-how was brutally exposed during a recent Champions League exit, highlighting the need for an experienced centre-back in particular.

But, a clash with Port Vale should allow Rosenior to trial a few things.

In Chelsea training images ahead of Port Vale, Sharman-Lowe was spotted alongside Robert Sanchez, sparking speculation that he could make his first appearance.

After an impressive first half of the campaign on loan at Bolton Wanderers, where he recorded six clean sheets in 22 appearances, the 23-year-old goalkeeper was recalled to Stamford Bridge in January.

This move was prompted by a long-term injury to Filip Jorgensen, thrusting Sharman-Lowe into the senior matchday squad as a backup to Robert Sanchez.

Since his return, he has balanced bench duties for Liam Rosenior’s senior side with dominant performances for the Under-21s, most notably recording an assist during a 4-1 win over Birmingham City.

Teddy Sharman-Lowe presents a third way out of Chelsea’s current goalkeeping crisis. Robert Sanchez’s confidence has visibly cratered following a series of errors, while Filip Jorgensen is sidelined for several weeks following a minor operation on a recurring groin injury.

With the first-team options either mentally fragile or physically unavailable, Sharman-Lowe offers the clean slate Liam Rosenior requires.

Having returned from a productive loan at Bolton with significant match rhythm, he represents a homegrown solution.

In a season where established stars are faltering, Sharman-Lowe’s hunger and consistency for the Under-21s makes him a good option to trial against Port Vale.

João Félix Insists He Has No Regrets Over Chelsea Exit After Being Restored to Natural Position at Al-Nassr

Portuguese forward João Félix has declared he has no regrets about leaving Chelsea for Al-Nassr, stating firmly “I did what I had to do!” as he continues to thrive in his preferred role at the Saudi Pro League club.

The 26-year-old joined Al-Nassr on a permanent two-year deal from Chelsea in July 2025 for an initial fee of €30 million, which could rise to €50 million with performance-related add-ons. After two separate spells at Stamford Bridge — including a permanent signing in 2024 — Félix struggled for consistent minutes and often found himself deployed out of position as a winger or isolated striker.

Speaking in a recent interview, Félix expressed satisfaction with his decision and the new chapter in his career alongside Cristiano Ronaldo, Sadio Mané, and under manager Jorge Jesus.

“I really enjoyed my time at Chelsea — it’s a massive club with incredible fans and facilities,” Félix said. “But I had to make the decision that felt right for me and my career. I did what I had to do! Now I’m playing regularly, getting plenty of minutes, and most importantly, I’m back in my natural position — the central attacking role where I first stood out at Benfica.

“The system here suits me very well. I have complete confidence in myself again, and I’m enjoying my football. We’re fighting at the top of the league with eight games left, and the atmosphere is fantastic.”

Since arriving in Saudi Arabia, Félix has rediscovered the form that once made him one of Europe’s most exciting young talents. His performances have drawn praise for his creativity, vision, and goal threat in a more liberated attacking midfield position.

Félix also reflected on the challenges of his time in the Premier League: “At Chelsea and even at Atlético Madrid, things didn’t always go as planned. Sometimes you need a change of environment to feel free again. Al-Nassr has given me that platform, and I’m very grateful.”

The move has allowed Félix to reunite with Portugal captain Ronaldo, adding another layer of excitement to his time in the Middle East.

Chelsea FC wished Félix well upon his departure last summer, acknowledging his efforts during his spells at the club.

Félix remains a key player for the Portugal national team and is expected to feature prominently in upcoming international fixtures.

Chelsea Defender Marc Cucurella Criticises Club’s Decision to Sack Enzo Maresca

Chelsea left-back Marc Cucurella has openly questioned the club’s decision to part company with former head coach Enzo Maresca, stating that players “would die for him” and that the change came too early.

In a frank interview, the Spain international expressed strong loyalty to Maresca, who guided Chelsea to UEFA Europa Conference League and Club World Cup success during his 18-month tenure before leaving the club in January 2026.

“When a manager gives you that confidence and offers you a platform to fight for titles, you’d die for him,” Cucurella said. “The moment Maresca left, it had a big impact on us. These are decisions taken by the club. If you asked me, I would not have made this decision.”

Cucurella added that such a mid-season change disrupts stability and suggested waiting until the end of the season would have been better for players and any incoming manager.

Maresca’s departure followed a reported breakdown in relations with the club’s hierarchy amid a challenging Premier League run, despite earlier trophy successes.

Cucurella’s comments reflect the sense of loss felt by some players after the Italian coach’s exit.