UCL stakes rise as Maresca eyes progress, Amorim backs Højlund News

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UCL stakes rise as Maresca eyes progress, Amorim backs Højlund

By Daily Sports Nigeria on May 17, 2025

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca and key figures around the club have reacted following the Blues’ 1-0 win over Manchester United, a result that not only bolstered their top-four hopes but also added further intensity to the Premier League title race.

Despite the win, Maresca, in his post-match reaction on Friday, called for patience and perspective from the media and supporters, highlighting that the current team is still in a transitional phase.

“The problem is that the press thinks it is the same Chelsea from years ago. It is not the same.

“It is about building something important. People have to trust us — we are going in the right direction,” Maresca said.

Club captain Reece James, who played a vital role in the team’s defensive solidity and gave the match-winning assist, echoed the ambition driving Chelsea’s end-of-season push.

“The Champions League is where Chelsea belongs, competing in the big competitions,” James declared.

Chelsea currently sit fourth on the table with 66 points after 37 matches — level with Aston Villa and Newcastle United but ahead on goal difference.

With the race for Champions League qualification tightening, the Blues’ latest result and internal belief could prove decisive in the season’s final stretch.

Meanwhile, speaking after the loss, Manchester United coach Ruben Amorim praised forward Rasmus Højlund’s efforts, while also noting the room for improvement in his game.

“I’m happy with Højlund. All the team has to improve. But the way he runs, he fights for every ball,” the Portuguese tactician said.

While Højlund’s overall impact on the game drew mixed reactions, Amorim acknowledged the young striker’s growing influence.

“He loses a lot of duels, wins some duels. He needs to improve the connection, but he’s improving. He just needs to continue to work hard,” he added.

The manager also hinted that individual performances in the Manchester United clash have given him clarity ahead of Man Utd’s next major – the Europa League Final.

“This performance has helped me a lot to choose the starting 11 for the final,” Amorim revealed, suggesting that selections for crucial matches will be shaped by recent displays.

Source Punch Ng

Posted May 17, 2025