Can This Conference League Win Fuel New Era for Chelsea? Boss Enzo Maresca Believes So

After a 4–1 Win Over Real Betis, Enzo Maresca Believes This Could Be the Beginning of Something Special at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea’s 4-1 comeback win over Real Betis in the UEFA Conference League final might just be more than a trophy. Boss Enzo Maresca believes that it could be the spark of a new era for the Blues. Chelsea were trailing at half-time after Abde Ezzalzouli’s goal, as the Blues were far from their best in the opening 45 minutes.

However, they roared back after the break. They scored four times through Enzo Fernandez, Nicolas Jackson, Jadon Sancho, and Moises Caicedo to clinch the title. The win not only marked Chelsea’s first Conference League title but also made them the first club to win all four major UEFA competitions.

Taking turns. 🔵 pic.twitter.com/sm1ZULbAMu
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) May 28, 2025

Enzo Maresca Hopes it to be a ‘Starting Point’

Maresca delivered a European trophy in his debut season in charge at Chelsea. He acknowledged the sluggish start but praised the turnaround. Referring to their recent Premier League before this game that secured them a Champions League spot, Maresca told TNT Sports:

“I was a little bit frustrated in the first half… The happiness was a bit too much after Nottingham Forest. The message was: ‘Guys, if we want to be an important team, what we have done is done. Now we have to win the final.’ Hopefully this can be a starting point. From tonight, from this season, building something important.”

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The Italian coach also highlighted the importance of the win for the fans and the club’s long-term ambitions. He said, “The fans deserve that, they have been waiting a few years for that… The club have invested a lot of money in the last two, three years, so they are also waiting for results.”

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Tactical Decisions and Player Management

One of Maresca’s key decisions was benching club captain Reece James. However, the English defender was brought on during the halftime. Explaining the move, Maresca said, “I promise you, I would always start with Reece, but I am trying to protect him… He played more games this season than the last two or three years.”

He also showed support for Malo Gusto, who was subbed off after his mistake led to Betis’ opener. He said, “They are young. They don’t understand that if you make a mistake, it doesn’t matter.” With silverware secured and Champions League football ahead, Maresca’s Chelsea are looking at this win as the launching pad to greatness ahead.

Chelsea

Conference League

Enzo Maresca

Premier League

Real Betis

Moumita Dutta

soccer

Football writer at The Playoffs. I’ve been obsessed with the beautiful game since I was a kid.. Eventually, I realized I could combine my passion for writing with my love for football, and I’ve never looked back. My favorite part of the job is everything—when you’re doing what you love, even a late-night deadline feels like extra time in a thrilling cup final. Lastly, Lionel Messi is the GOAT.