Enzo Maresca Blasts Chelsea Players Despite Carabao Cup Win: 'We Struggled'

Enzo Maresca has disclosed that he was "absolutely" furious with his Chelsea squad during the interval of their tight 2-1 Carabao Cup victory against League One side Lincoln City.

Robert Street's goal in the 42nd minute left Chelsea behind against their lower-division opponents at halftime in Tuesday's third-round fixture, with the Blues managing only three attempts compared to their rivals' nine during the first 45 minutes.

Maresca chose not to make changes at the interval and was quickly vindicated for his patience, as Tyrique George and Facundo Buonanotte both found the net within the first five minutes of the second half to secure Chelsea's anxious victory.

After the weekend's frustrating loss to Manchester United, Maresca acknowledged that Chelsea "struggled" with their drive during the opening half at Lincoln.

When questioned about his anger toward his players at halftime, the Italian replied: "Absolutely, absolutely, absolutely.

"I understand some of them hadn't experienced these types of matches. I questioned them about how often they had faced League One opponents because you must approach it as a different style of contest.

"It's not the same match because their determination is twice as strong. We had difficulties in the opening half but performed much better after the break and secured the victory.

"If our next fixture is against a League One or League Two side away from home, this experience will certainly benefit us for that encounter. This has been valuable learning."

Chelsea fielded a formidable starting eleven for the clash with Lincoln, featuring debuts for summer signings Alejandro Garnacho, Jamie Gittens and Jorrel Hato. Established players Enzo Fernández, Wesley Fofana and Trevoh Chalobah were also included in the starting lineup.

While it wasn't an elegant performance for Chelsea, they have secured their place in the fourth round nonetheless, and they will learn their next adversaries in Wednesday's draw.