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REVEALED: Why Enzo Maresca is not in the dugout for Chelsea vs Everton

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Enzo Maresca will be absent from the Chelsea dugout when the Blues face Everton at Stamford Bridge this Saturday in the Premier League.

The Chelsea manager received his third yellow card of the season after his celebrations following Pedro Neto’s last-minute winner against Fulham last weekend, which has resulted in a one-match touchline ban.

In his absence, assistant head coach Willy Caballero will be responsible for directing the team from the sidelines.

Maresca, who will have to watch from the stands, addressed the situation by saying he is unsure whether he will be alone or have someone by his side during the match.

He emphasized that when the manager is not present, it becomes crucial for the team’s leadership group to step up and take ownership on the pitch.

Despite some criticism this season, Maresca insists that Chelsea have made meaningful progress. Following Sunday’s dramatic 2-1 comeback win over Fulham, which featured late goals from Tyrique George and Pedro Neto, the team received a much-needed boost in their pursuit of Champions League qualification.

Although Chelsea temporarily climbed back into the top five, they have since been overtaken by Nottingham Forest. With just six wins from their last 17 Premier League matches, the battle to achieve the club’s objectives remains fierce.

Reflecting on Chelsea’s performances under his leadership, Maresca remains positive. He pointed out that compared to the past two years, the current season cannot be labeled a failure.

The manager stressed that Chelsea have been within Champions League positions for most of the season, something that did not happen frequently in the previous campaigns. He described this as a clear sign of improvement, even if critics are reluctant to acknowledge it.

Under the ownership of Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, Chelsea finished 12th and 6th in their first two seasons, years marked by significant turnover among players and managers. This year, with less squad overhaul, was expected to be the season where the over £1 billion investment in new signings would finally translate into consistent results.

However, as the season nears its end, Chelsea find themselves once again struggling to meet expectations, sitting in a similar position to last May.

Maresca reminded everyone that earlier this season, Chelsea were just two points behind Liverpool in December, holding second place before their form dipped. For him, the progress is undeniable and it is only a matter of perspective whether one chooses to see it or not.

He reiterated the club’s ambition to return to the heights it once occupied, stating that the necessary foundations are in place.

With five games remaining, Maresca and his squad have a challenging road ahead to secure a Champions League berth. Nevertheless, the manager remains confident that Chelsea are moving in the right direction.

He urged supporters and observers alike to recognize the improvement, even if it is not immediately reflected in the current league standings. As the season draws to a close, all eyes will be on how the team responds in this crucial stretch.

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FIFA finally sanctions Israel and sounds message for peace: Here’s why

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FIFA finally sanctions Israel and sounds message for peace: Here's why

FIFA’s Disciplinary Committee has taken action against the Israel Football Association (IFA) after finding breaches of its rules relating to offensive conduct, fair play, and incidents involving discrimination and racist behavior.

As part of the ruling, the IFA has been fined CHF 150,000 (around €165,000), with conditions attached. The federation is required to roll out preventive measures, including displaying a clear anti-discrimination message at its next three home matches in FIFA competitions. The message, which promotes unity and rejects discrimination, must appear alongside the federation’s emblem, with its design, size, and placement submitted to FIFA for approval at least 15 days before each fixture.

Beyond matchday requirements, the IFA must also take longer-term action. Within 60 days, it is expected to allocate one-third of the fine toward a detailed anti-discrimination initiative. This program is set to include structural improvements, defined protocols, monitoring systems, and educational campaigns across stadiums and official platforms throughout an entire season, all subject to FIFA’s approval. The remaining portion of the fine must be settled within 30 days. FIFA has also issued a formal warning regarding future conduct, with the option for the IFA to appeal the decision.

In relation to a separate complaint raised by the Palestinian Football Association concerning teams based in disputed territories, FIFA chose not to impose any measures. The governing body pointed to the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the legal status of the West Bank under international law, but emphasized its willingness to encourage dialogue and mediation between both sides.

FIFA president Gianni Infantino reiterated the organization’s stance on the role of football during periods of political tension, stressing that while the sport cannot solve global conflicts, it can still play a part in bringing people together and fostering understanding through competitions like the World Cup.

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New angle emerges of massive brawl in Brazil: Brutal close-range fight footage (VIDEO)

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New angle emerges of massive brawl in Brazil: Brutal close-range fight footage

The Minas Gerais state championship final between Cruzeiro Esporte Clube and Clube Atlético Mineiro ended in chaos on Sunday, with a massive on-field brawl. Cruzeiro secured a 1-0 victory, but the match will be remembered for the violent fallout.

Reports from Brazilian media indicate that the referee issued an additional 23 red cards following the melee.

The incident that sparked the conflict occurred in the 97th minute inside Atletico’s penalty area after a collision between Christian of Cruzeiro and home goalkeeper Everson. Everson reacted aggressively, first pushing Christian and then pinning him to the ground with both knees.

Close-range footage of the altercation later surfaced online, showing the intensity of the clash and adding fuel to an already controversial derby.

This extraordinary sequence will likely result in disciplinary action from the league and raises questions about player conduct in high-stakes matches.

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Michael Carrick blow as ‘prominent’ target on Man Utd’s managerial shortlist is ‘keen’ on Old Trafford job

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Michael Carrick blow as ‘prominent’ target on Man Utd’s managerial shortlist is ‘keen’ on Old Trafford job

Former Brighton & Hove Albion FC boss Roberto De Zerbi is reportedly “keen” on becoming the next manager of Manchester United FC.

The 46-year-old is currently without a club after leaving Olympique de Marseille by mutual agreement last month. Both Manchester United and Tottenham Hotspur FC have been linked with a summer move for the Italian as they search for a permanent head coach.

According to reports from The Telegraph, De Zerbi would favour the Old Trafford role if given the choice.

His potential appointment could be a setback for interim United boss Michael Carrick, who has largely impressed since taking charge in January.

Carrick suffered his first defeat on Wednesday as United lost to Newcastle United FC, with goals from Anthony Gordon and William Osula sealing the result.

Despite that setback, several United players are believed to support Carrick being given the role permanently. Senior figures such as Bruno Fernandes, Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw are reportedly impressed by his tactical ideas and deep understanding of the game.

United’s hierarchy have yet to decide whether to stick with the former England international or appoint a new manager. Other names linked with the role include Julian Nagelsmann and Roberto Martínez.

De Zerbi has also been mentioned as a potential candidate at Tottenham. Spurs currently sit 16th in the Premier League, just one point above the relegation zone.

The club dismissed former head coach Thomas Frank last month and appointed Igor Tudor as interim manager.

Tudor has yet to register a win, but after a recent defeat to Crystal Palace FC he insisted the team is still moving in the right direction.

“Unfortunately this is the moment we pay for everything. One red card changes everything,” Tudor said.

“Maybe it will sound strange, but I believe more after this game than before. I saw something. I need to choose the right players because the boat is going in the direction that I want it to go.

“When the injured players return, I’m sure we will have a good team and the victories will come. It’s not easy to accept where we are now, but it is how it is.”

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