Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca is unlikely to get any “protection” after making cryptic, premeditated comments that appeared to be aimed at the club’s owners, according to Wayne Rooney.
Maresca said the build-up to Chelsea’s Premier League win over Everton was the “worst 48 hours” since he joined the club in June 2024, hinting that he and his team were not supported. He later refused to explain exactly who the comments were about.
Speaking on The Wayne Rooney Show, Rooney said the remarks were deliberate, adding that Maresca knew what he was saying and that the Chelsea board and owners would understand the comments were aimed at them.
Chelsea are currently fourth in the Premier League, but recent results have been mixed, with just two points from their previous three league games and a Champions League defeat to Atalanta. Rooney believes Maresca’s comments could hurt him if results dip again, especially since he has not received the same public backing other managers, such as Ruben Amorim at Manchester United, have had from their owners.
Rooney also said managers must respect club owners, as they are the ones who hire them, suggesting Maresca may have crossed a line. He added that Maresca’s actions make it hard for the club to defend him now, calling the situation strange and saying it would be difficult for Chelsea to offer protection after what was said.
