Chelsea Coach, Enzo Maresca Hits Back At Rooney Over Team Rotation Criticism

08 Nov 2025, 07:05 by Ernest Victor · Naija News

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has responded to Wayne Rooney’s criticism of his rotation policy, insisting that his approach is necessary to keep the squad fresh during a long and demanding season.

The Italian has faced questions over his constant lineup changes, particularly after Chelsea’s 2-2 draw with Qarabag in the Champions League on Wednesday. Naija News reports that the result marked the fifth consecutive match in which he made at least seven alterations, prompting Rooney to suggest that senior players should “question” the frequent rotations.

Speaking to BBC Sport on Friday, Maresca stood firm, saying his decisions are part of a long-term strategy to manage the physical demands of modern football.

“We are in an era where anyone can say what they want,” Maresca said in response to Rooney’s remarks. “Since I joined the club, it’s my view to rotate players. No one complains when you win. When you don’t win, I can understand why no one agrees with you. I loved rotation as a player. Football is a bit different compared to years ago in terms of physicality and intensity. It’s impossible to play with the same players in 65 games in one season.”

He described the campaign as a marathon that requires balance and foresight. “If you want to see the season like a marathon, when you are in February and March, the last sprint, you have to think differently. But it’s a long race,” he said.

Maresca also defended his decision to start teenage defender Jorrel Hato in Baku, despite the youngster being at fault for both Qarabag goals. The coach emphasised that providing opportunities to young players is integral to Chelsea’s long-term vision.

“When the rotation is Andrey Santos, a Brazilian international, Jorrel Hato, a Netherlands international, and Estevao, a Brazilian international, then it’s not about rotation,” Maresca said. “They are talented; they are young. When they are young, you have to give them a chance to make mistakes. But when you don’t win games, the problem is rotation.”

Chelsea are scheduled to play their Premier League Matchday 11 against Wolves at 9 p.m. later tonight.