In the upcoming Premier League match, Chelsea will take on Newcastle United. Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca attended the pre-match press conference ahead of the clash with Newcastle.
Maresca believes Cole Palmer is ready to "get more playing time," with the England international gradually returning to his best form after an absence of two and a half months.
"He is available. He has played 60 minutes twice – maybe a bit longer last time. So his form is improving, and he can play more minutes. Whether it's 70 or 90 minutes will depend on the game situation."
Enzo Fernández is also expected to return to the starting lineup, having not featured in the midweek match against Cardiff City.
"Caicedo was previously suspended for three games, but both of them have played a lot of matches. Currently, I don't think we have a suitable replacement for Enzo.
We have adapted André Santos to this position, but André is more of a No.6 backup for Caicedo rather than for Enzo. Moi has also had a lot of playing time because unfortunately, we lost Romeo Lavia and Dário Esugo at the same time.
So they have played a lot of games, but if you look at Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City – the clubs that participate in the Champions League – they also have players who play every game."
On Whether There Are Outstanding Issues Between the Club and Himself to Move Forward Together
When asked if there are any other issues that need to be resolved between the club and himself to continue working together, Maresca said:
"That's their problem, not mine.
What I said was not out of emotion, absolutely not. I said what I said, full stop."
When pressed on whether he needs to communicate with the club's senior management, he still insisted on his stance, replying:
"I've said what I needed to say."
On Whether He Wants More Say in Transfers
When asked if he hopes to have more say in transfers, Maresca said:
"No, no, absolutely not. No, no, no. I am satisfied with the current squad. If you remember, I have said many times before that the reason I joined this club is because I think the squad is very good."
On Whether He Would Sign a New Contract If Offered
If the club offers a new contract, will you sign it?
"If the club offers me a new contract? It's up to the club to decide if I deserve a new contract."
Do you think you deserve a new contract?
"That's for the club to decide."
