Fans were surprised by Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca's decision to include French defender Axel Disasi in his starting XI to face Southampton in the Premier League (December 4). Blues fans have branded the 26-year-old's inclusion an “absolute disgrace”, saying playing him was a “very big risk” from the Italian tactician.
Since his arrival from Monaco for a fee of €45 million in August 2023, Disasi has been in and out of the Chelsea lineup due to his inconsistent performances. He made 54 appearances for the Blues, helping his team keep 16 clean sheets.
This season, Disasi has captained the team three times, winning all three. He led the team in a 5-0 defeat to Barrow in the EFL Cup and in Europa League UEFA Conference victories against Ghent (4-2) and Heidenheim (2-0).
Despite his strong performance, fans aren't sold on Maresca's decision to play him against the Saints. @PeteSiPeter wrote:
“Disasi is Maresca’s real big risk.”
@sterlingcfc wrote:
“How are you going to start Disasi at the Prem, it's an absolute disgrace. Stupid man.”
Here's a selection of fan reactions (via X):
“Disasi, may God have mercy on us”, @cfc_boga prayed.
“Not bad. But Disasi is a big problem for us”, @YoungestJosh of opinion.
“If it was (Levi) Colwill instead of Disasi I would have been happy but it’s an instant red flag,” @JTChelseaFan01 claimed.
“Disasi, we lost”, @VdykCFC wrote.
“Disasi and Tosin (Adarabioyo) together??? Lmao, I hope it doesn't cost us much. They are both a little slow”, @CfcDae wrote.
@SantossCFC exclaimed“DISEASE ??”
“Disasista begins, I hope we win”, @Jaymowajujaz wrote.
“Disasi, it’s over”, @_sarahv3 wrote.
Playing primarily as a right-back, Disasi has made 10 appearances (nine starts) in all competitions this season, with one goal and two assists to his name.
'The toughest game' – Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca makes surprising claim about EPL clash against Southampton
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has surprisingly claimed that their Premier League The clash against Southampton will be “the most difficult match” of their season so far.
The Saints are in last place in the standings with only five points after 13 days (one victory, two draws, 10 defeats). Meanwhile, Chelsea have 25 points, putting them third, behind London rivals Arsenal, who also have 25 points, and the runaway leaders. Liverpool (34 points).
Despite the gap in quality on paper, Maresca said his team will have to be on their toes to achieve victory. Speaking to reporters, the 44-year-old said (via GOAL):
“It's the worst match for us since the start of the season. The most difficult match and we have to be ready, otherwise it will be a bad day for us. If you analyze the results, they are there (at the bottom of the table ) but in terms of performance they are very good. They led against Liverpool, they only lost 1-0 against Manchester City and they drew in the last match against Brighton.
“I was in the league with Southampton last season and I know how good they are. They are very brave, they want to keep the ball and it will definitely be a very difficult game for us and we have to be ready,” Maresca added .
Chelsea will face Southampton at St. Mary's Stadium on Wednesday, December 4.
Edited by Arshit Garg
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