Maresca Explodes Over Bayern Star's Shocking Red Card Escape That Left Chelsea Fuming

Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca expressed his frustration after Bayern Munich escaped what he believed was a "definite red card" during Wednesday evening's Champions League encounter.

The Blues suffered a 3–1 defeat in Bavaria, marking their return to Europe's premier tournament with a loss, but a controversial first-half incident saw Bayern's Jonathan Tah receive only a yellow card for his altercation with João Pedro.

The German defender appeared to throw an elbow at Pedro as Chelsea looked to launch a counter-attack, sending the striker to the turf. Official José María Sánchez Martínez deemed a yellow card adequate punishment, which infuriated Maresca to the point where he earned his own caution for his protests.

"In my view, it's a definite red card," the Chelsea manager told the media after the match.

"When there's no attempt to play the ball, just to strike the player, how is that not a sending-off? The referee claimed it wasn't aggressive enough. Do they need to see blood before issuing a red card? For me, the intent was to harm, so there's no question."

The controversy occurred at a crucial juncture in the match. Bayern had surged to a 2–0 advantage through a Trevoh Chalobah own goal and Harry Kane spot-kick, before Cole Palmer reduced the deficit for Chelsea. Tah's booking came directly afterward, potentially shaping the game's trajectory.

The decision disrupted Chelsea's rhythm and Bayern managed to add a third goal during the second half.

Bayern coach Vincent Kompany predictably defended his player.

"I wanted the foul called against us," he stated. "I believed [Tah] was the one fouled. I might be partial. I think his jersey was grabbed and he was attempting to break free, so as a defender, you simply want to shake off the opponent. Generally, I don't wish to debate it extensively but it's not such a significant incident in my view."