Former Chelsea defender Frank Leboeuf has criticised manager Enzo Maresca after he refused to explain his 'worst 48 hours' comments following the Everton win
Enzo Maresca has been told to either expand on his recent comments or keep quiet by ex-Chelsea defender Frank Leboeuf, following the manager's public outburst after last weekend's victory over Everton.
Despite his team claiming a 2-0 win against the Toffees, the Italian boss revealed in his post-match press conference that the preceding days had been his "worst 48 hours" at Stamford Bridge. He refused to provide any further details about who his comments were targeted at, reports football.london.
Naturally, this sparked speculation, with suggestions they were aimed at Chelsea's ownership and sporting directors. When pressed to clarify his remarks days later before the Carabao Cup quarter-final against Cardiff City, Maresca grew irritable and stressed that he had nothing more to say on the matter.
Leboeuf, who enjoyed five years at Chelsea from 1996 to 2001, collecting five trophies during that period, has offered his thoughts on the manager's explosive comments and his refusal to provide any explanation.
The former defender believes the current drama shouldn't overshadow the club's urgent requirement to secure Champions League qualification next season.
"It's maybe the first time after two losses and one draw he felt the pressure and to come out with that, and to say even worse," Leboeuf told football.london via ToonieBet. "Before the game against Cardiff, he said, 'I was really clear about the situation.'
"No, you weren't, we didn't understand a word of what you were saying because we don't understand who you are targeting, who was targeting you."
"Yes, it's hard to be the coach of Chelsea Football Club. Yes, you are doing okay, but can we say that sometimes I don't understand you, and that's how I feel.
"I love that club, I think the coach is doing the best he can, but don't come out with those kind of comments because we don't get it, except that we understand that you are under big pressure, which is absolutely normal, being the coach of Chelsea Football Club and losing two games and drawing one after what we saw against Arsenal.
"No big deal, let's forget about it because I think it doesn't mean anything and keep on working and make sure that Chelsea is gonna qualify for the Champions League next season."
Maresca's squad face a challenging fixture this weekend with a trip to Newcastle on the cards. Following the festive period, they welcome Aston Villa to Stamford Bridge in what promises to be another stern examination.
The Blues currently sit fourth in the Premier League table, though their recent form - including two draws and a loss - has enabled their rivals to narrow the divide.
Sunderland, Liverpool, Manchester United and Crystal Palace are all breathing down their necks, sitting just two points behind.