Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has been issued a one-match touchline ban after receiving his third yellow card of the season during the Blues’ dramatic 2-1 win over Fulham. The ban, enforced under Premier League regulations, will see Maresca absent from the touchline for Chelsea’s next match against Everton.
The incident occurred late in the match against Fulham when Pedro Neto scored a stoppage-time winner. In a burst of emotion, Maresca left his technical area and stepped onto the pitch, an action prohibited under Premier League guidelines for coaches. According to the league’s disciplinary rules, accumulating three yellow cards for misconduct in the technical area automatically triggers a one-game suspension.
In Maresca’s absence, assistant coach Willy Caballero will take over matchday coaching duties from the touchline against Everton. Caballero, a former Chelsea goalkeeper, has been a trusted member of Maresca’s coaching staff and is expected to maintain the team’s momentum during the critical fixture.
Following the announcement, Maresca expressed remorse over the incident, admitting that his celebration was an instinctive reaction to the thrilling late goal. He acknowledged the importance of maintaining professionalism, even in emotionally charged moments.
The Chelsea head coach’s touchline ban serves as a reminder of the strict standards enforced in the Premier League and the emotional intensity that comes with managing at the highest level.
Despite the brief suspension, Chelsea remains focused on continuing their strong run of form. The club and its fans will hope Maresca’s short absence will not disrupt their pursuit of vital points in the Premier League standings.
