Chelsea are through to the Europa Conference League quarter-finals, but their performance against FC Copenhagen did little to silence doubts about Enzo Maresca’s approach.
A 1-0 victory at Stamford Bridge secured a 3-1 aggregate win, yet the mood in the stands remained subdued.
Chelsea dominated possession but struggled to break down a disciplined Copenhagen side, leading to more frustration from the home crowd. Maresca is under pressure to deliver silverware.
“This club always won trophies in the past, and we need to do our best to achieve our target this season,” he said. “We have to give the fans and the club a title.”
For long periods, his side looked short on ideas. Chelsea lacked tempo and incision in the first half, leading to boos at half-time.
Copenhagen, still in the tie after their late first-leg goal, defended compactly and had little trouble keeping the hosts at bay.
Jadon Sancho was quiet on the left, while Pedro Neto had moments of promise but was largely contained. Only teenager Tyrique George showed any real urgency with direct runs down the right.
Chelsea’s attack improved after the introduction of Cole Palmer and Marc Cucurella at half-time.
Palmer had hoped for a rest after playing through illness at the weekend, but Chelsea rely on him too much. Even in a rut, he remains their most dangerous player.
It took a moment of individual brilliance to settle the game. Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall showed persistence and quality to force his way past challenges before slotting home in the 55th minute.
Despite the win, the crowd remains unconvinced. Maresca’s philosophy has yet to take hold, and the absence of a clear attacking structure remains an issue.
Chelsea’s greater resources ultimately got them over the line, but Copenhagen had their moments.
They nearly punished sloppy defending early in the second half, and a sharper side might have taken advantage of Chelsea’s vulnerabilities.
Progressing in Europe is vital for Chelsea, but performances must improve. With Arsenal up next, a display like this will not be enough.
Maresca has secured another win, but he still has plenty to prove.
