Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has defended his decision to let Joao Felix leave on loan to AC Milan, insisting the club does not miss the Portuguese forward despite their 2-1 FA Cup defeat to Brighton on Saturday.
Joao Felix’s Departure and Milan Debut
Felix completed a deadline-day move to Milan after playing only 12 Premier League matches for Chelsea this season. While he managed eight goals in 22 appearances across all competitions, four of those came in the Europa Conference League.
The Portugal international wasted no time making an impact in Italy, scoring on his debut for Milan in their Coppa Italia victory over Roma—becoming the first Rossoneri player to find the net on his first appearance since Alvaro Morata last August.
Maresca’s Justification and Chelsea’s Attacking Woes
With Nicolas Jackson and Marc Guiu unavailable due to injury, Maresca started Christopher Nkunku against Brighton. However, the French forward failed to register a shot during the game, raising questions about whether Chelsea were right to let Felix leave.
Despite concerns from fans and pundits, Maresca stood by his decision, stating:
“I don’t think we miss Joao. He’s happy there [Milan], and we’re happy that he’s happy.”
The Chelsea boss also admitted that injuries late in the January transfer window created a difficult situation:
“Two injuries on the last day of the transfer window—it’s a tough one. Nico [Jackson] could be back soon.”
“Sometimes I think we need to play a few games without certain players to realize their importance.”
Chelsea’s Struggles Continue
The FA Cup loss to Brighton means Chelsea have now won just three of their last ten matches in all competitions (D3 L4). This form is a stark contrast to their earlier winning streak of eight consecutive victories.
With pressure mounting, Chelsea will return to the Amex Stadium on Friday to face Brighton again—this time in the Premier League—where they will look to avenge their cup defeat and turn their fortunes around.
