Didier Drogba Slams Chelsea Star After Benfica Win, Urges Maresca to Drop Underperformer
Chelsea’s victory over Benfica in the Club World Cup may have brought celebration on the pitch, but off the field, a storm is brewing. Club legend Didier Drogba has reportedly urged new manager Enzo Maresca to bench a struggling first-team player—despite the team’s winning performance.
Drogba Unhappy with Player’s Performance Despite Chelsea Victory
According to sources close to the club, Drogba voiced his disappointment privately after the match, allegedly telling Maresca:
“Despite the win, his performance was unacceptable — bench him.”
The player in question remains unnamed, but reports suggest he was given a 4/10 match rating, raising eyebrows among fans and analysts alike. While not disastrous, such a rating falls well below Chelsea’s high standards—especially under the watchful eye of a club legend.
Drogba Demands Excellence at Stamford Bridge
As a four-time Premier League champion and Champions League winner, Didier Drogba remains a symbol of Chelsea’s golden era. His demand for high standards is not new, but his recent remarks have struck a chord.
The former Ivorian striker reportedly made his comments in a post-match chat with Enzo Maresca, who is still in the early stages of his Chelsea managerial career. Maresca now faces a key decision: stick with his player or heed Drogba’s call.
Fan Reactions: Divided Opinions on Drogba’s Comments
Chelsea fans have taken to social media to express mixed views on Drogba’s blunt critique.
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One supporter wrote:
“Drogba is a legend, but he should let Maresca manage the team. A win is a win.” -
Another chimed in:
“He’s 100% right. You can’t ignore a 4/10 performance in a crucial game. Standards matter.”
Who Is the Player Drogba Wants Benched?
While no names have been officially mentioned, speculation is swirling. Several fans and football pundits have pointed to a handful of Chelsea starters who underperformed during the Benfica clash. The mystery only adds pressure on Maresca to take decisive action—or risk further scrutiny.
Maresca Faces Early Leadership Test
Still settling into his new role, Enzo Maresca is already facing a tough challenge: balancing respect for club legends like Drogba with maintaining authority over his squad. How he handles this situation could set the tone for the rest of Chelsea’s season.
Conclusion: Will Maresca Listen to Drogba?
Didier Drogba’s criticism has reignited debate about performance standards at Chelsea. Despite a strong team result, individual players remain under pressure to deliver. With high expectations from fans and former legends alike, Maresca’s next move could define his early tenure at Stamford Bridge.