Wrexham Coach Mocks Chelsea After 2-2 Draw, Enzo Maresca Speaks On His Style

The manager of Wrexham, Phil Parkinson, believes his team should have beaten Chelsea in Wednesday’s pre-season friendly, referring to the Blues as a “billion-pound team.”

After falling behind to Christopher Nkunku‘s first-half goal, Wrexham staged an impressive comeback with goals from Jack Marriott and Luke Bolton. Although Lesley Ugochukwu salvaged a 2-2 draw for Chelsea with an 82nd-minute equalizer, Parkinson maintained that his team had the potential to secure a win.

Parkinson said: “You’ve got to put it into context. We’ve played a billion-pound team, they’ve spent so much money, and two years ago we were playing in the National League.

“To go toe-to-toe with Chelsea tonight, you can understand what an effort that was from the lads and we could and should have won the game.”

Meanwhile, Chelsea’s new manager, Enzo Maresca, cautioned fans about the team’s defensive vulnerability when playing out from the back following their 2-2 draw with Wrexham.

Acknowledging defensive lapses that led to Wrexham’s goals, Maresca emphasized the risks associated with their style of play. He however remained unwavering in his commitment to build from the back despite the possibility of conceding goals.

“For sure, we are going to concede goals this season playing out from the back,” Maresca said.

“Hopefully, not too many. It is one of the risks that you have trying to build from behind.”

On whether he would continue with the style, the former Leicester City coach said: “Absolutely. I have no doubt.”

Additionally, Chelsea defender Reece James acknowledged the transitional phase he is undergoing under Maresca’s management.

Despite being accustomed to a more attacking role, James is adapting to a new position that requires him to play in central areas rather than his usual wide position.

Although he admitted that there is still much for him to learn, he expressed enthusiasm for the change and is eager to embrace the challenge.

The England international said: “The early days have been very enjoyable. It’s a lot different to what I’m used to but I think with how I play it suits me quite well.

“I’ve still got a lot to learn for what he wants in the role but I’m excited and I can’t wait.”