Some of Maresca’s constant tinkering with his backline has been enforced by injuries to Wesley Fofana and Benoit Badiashile, but plenty of it has been by choice.

Enzo Maresca has criticised referee Rob Jones for his role in a VAR check which saw David Brooks remain on the pitch in Chelsea's 2-2 draw with Bournemouth. The Blues took the lead through Cole Palmer in the first half and were in control heading into the break,

But it is Chelsea’s lack of control during matches that is providing a test for him now. The 2-0 defeat at Ipswich Town means Chelsea have lost successive games for the first time under Maresca. They have failed to score in successive away games too and ended 2024 picking up just one point from their final three league matches.