‘Enzo Maresca, Levi Colwill rage at Robert Sanchez in Nottingham Forest v Chelsea’
Enzo Maresca and Levi Colwill couldn’t hide their anger for Robert Sanchez in the opening half of Nottingham Forest versus Chelsea.
The clash at the City Ground on Sunday, 25 May, marked a significant moment in both teams’ seasons, with a victory securing a top-five spot and Champions League qualification for next term.
Sanchez has been under immense pressure from Chelsea fans, mainly after several errors leading to goals or his frustrating style of play, meaning the Blues losing possession far too often.
The manager has also been criticised for sticking with the 27-year-old, especially with Djordje Petrovic and Kepa Arrizabalaga on loan, with the latter thriving at Bournemouth this season.
His performances have been repeatedly slammed this season, and with Maresca’s side struggling to get into proceedings at the City Ground, his manager and teammate could not hide their frustrations on the pitch.
Robert Sanchez frustrates in first half of Nottingham Forest v Chelsea
Taking to X (25 May), BBC Sport’s Nizaar Kinsella wrote: “Sanchez kicks the ball out of play. Maresca and Colwill are angry.”
This all came after a simple pass-back to the goalkeeper in the 15th minute, who, instead of clearing the ball or finding the simple pass, attempted an audacious chip back to his teammate, and fired his effort far too long and out for a throw.
With Nuno Espirito Santo‘s side dictating possession for the opening few minutes, it was a rather disappointing moment for the Chelsea duo as the shot-stopper lost the ball once again.
Sanchez managed to repeat the feat late in the half as he sent another clearance sailing over Maresca in the technical area, and almost conceded a crucial goal to Chris Wood, who beat him to a near-post ball but could only divert narrowly over an open goal.
Enzo Maresca to make difficult decisions this summer
Football Insider verdict
It has been a rather strange season for those at Stamford Bridge, with fans disappointed by the fluctuation in results, but also a European final left to fight in.
The Blues are set to face Real Betis in the Europa Conference League final on Wednesday, 28 May, and winning silverware would be a huge bonus for the under-pressure Maresca at Chelsea.
However, the majority of supporters are more concerned about their team securing Champions League football for next season, with the pull of the Europa League concerning when it comes to the summer transfer window.
One big decision that Maresca does need to make once the summer transfer window opens is which goalkeeper will be between the sticks once the 2025/26 campaign rolls around.
Fans have made their feelings known about Sanchez’s lack of talent, and after the pitchside outburst from his manager at the City Ground, it might be too late to change his mind about a change in goalkeepers.