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Enzo Maresca on Why Garnacho Didn’t Play Today: “Garnacho Was About to Come On but Then Wesley Fofana Asked for a Substitution Because He Was Tired.”

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has shed light on one of the most puzzling moments of today’s game—why Argentine winger Alejandro Garnacho, one of the most exciting young players in the Premier League, did not feature despite warming up and appearing ready to come on.

Speaking after the final whistle, Maresca explained that Garnacho was literally seconds away from being introduced when defender Wesley Fofana signaled that he needed to be substituted, citing fatigue and discomfort. That unexpected change forced the Chelsea boss to rethink his plans, leaving Garnacho on the bench for the rest of the contest.

The Substitution Twist

“I wanted to bring Garnacho on,” Maresca revealed in his post-match press conference. “He was ready, the board was up, but then Wesley [Fofana] asked to come off. He was tired and didn’t feel he could continue. At that point, I had to adjust the substitution strategy. It was not the ideal situation, but as a manager, you must react to the needs of the team.”

Instead of Garnacho’s attacking flair being unleashed, Chelsea were forced to make a more pragmatic change at the back to maintain defensive stability. Maresca admitted it was a frustrating situation, but one dictated by necessity.

Why Garnacho’s Absence Was Noticed

Garnacho’s omission from the pitch raised eyebrows among fans and pundits alike. Known for his pace, dribbling, and ability to spark life into stagnant attacks, the young Argentine has quickly become one of the most talked-about talents in England.

As the game unfolded, Chelsea clearly lacked creativity and urgency in the final third. Many supporters felt that Garnacho’s introduction could have tilted the momentum in their favor, particularly in a match that hung delicately in the balance. Social media buzzed with questions like “Why isn’t Garnacho coming on?” and “Maresca needs to unleash him.”

Maresca’s post-match clarification helps explain the decision, but it won’t silence the disappointment of fans who wanted to see the teenager light up Old Trafford with his fearless attacking style.

Managing Fatigue and Squad Balance

Maresca also used the opportunity to underline the broader challenges of managing his squad. “It’s important to remember that players are human beings,” he said. “Wesley has been working hard to get back into top condition after his injuries. When he said he couldn’t go on, I had to protect him. It’s better to lose a substitution than to risk a serious problem.”

The Italian coach stressed that managing minutes and avoiding burnout is critical across a long and demanding season. However, he acknowledged that moments like this can complicate his tactical plans.

Fans Divided Over the Decision

While many supporters empathized with Fofana’s situation, others expressed frustration that Garnacho—one of the brightest sparks in the squad—was once again left waiting. Some questioned whether Maresca could have reshuffled differently to still bring the winger on later in the game, while others accepted that the coach’s hands were tied once Fofana made his request.

One fan wrote online: “We all wanted Garnacho today. But if Fofana said he was done, the manager can’t ignore that. Still—so unlucky!”

Looking Ahead

Maresca confirmed that Garnacho remains an important part of his plans and hinted that the Argentine will play a bigger role in the upcoming fixtures. “He is a fantastic talent,” Maresca said. “He will get his chances. Today was just an unusual situation that changed everything.”

For Chelsea, the situation serves as a reminder of the fine margins and unexpected twists that can shape matches in the Premier League. For Garnacho, it was another lesson in patience as he waits for his moment to shine under Maresca’s stewardship.

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