Maresca Voices Displeasure Over Weather-Related Delays in US

CHARLOTTE: Following Chelsea’s weather-delayed 4-1 triumph over Benfica in Charlotte, manager Enzo Maresca has questioned the choice of the United States as host for the FIFA Club World Cup.

Maresca labeled the two-hour interruption due to lightning as ‘a joke’ after the contest held at Bank of America Stadium. Chelsea’s victory propelled them into the quarterfinals against Palmeiras.

He conveyed his annoyance with the recurrent weather-induced interruptions in the US, asserting they render it unsuitable for elite football, citing disturbances to focus and risks to player well-being.

“We didn’t concede anything. We fashioned sufficient opportunities to secure the win,” Maresca stated.

“However, post-intermission, the match dynamics shifted entirely. Personally, this deviates from the essence of football. With seven, eight, or even nine prior suspensions, it borders on the absurd. This transcends conventional football. It’s untenable for us. Prolonged confinement of players becomes inevitable.”

Maresca acknowledged the necessity of suspending play for safety during lightning, yet he contended that the sheer number of delays signals the location’s inadequacy for such a distinguished tournament.

“If six or seven matches have already faced suspension, decision-makers must reassess. Consider the World Cup – how many suspensions occur? Probably none. And in Europe? Also none,” he remarked.

“Having spent two weeks here, witnessing six or seven suspensions already, it highlights a significant issue.”

He further noted that lengthy delays severely impair players’ ability to maintain concentration.

“As a coach, sustaining player focus during two-hour dressing room confinements proves challenging. They engage with families for safety updates, indulge in meals, laughter, and games. Maintaining mental engagement in the game becomes impossible. It verges on the ridiculous.”

“While we appreciate the opportunity to participate in this competition, the prevailing circumstances deviate from the norm,” Maresca concluded.