Chelsea cruised to a comfortable 3-0 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, silencing critics of manager Enzo Maresca's rotation policy. Despite a frustrating first half where the Blues struggled to convert dominance into goals, they found their stride after the break, securing a win that temporarily propelled them to second place in the Premier League table.
Maresca made eight changes to the starting lineup following a midweek Champions League draw against Qarabag in Azerbaijan, a decision that drew scrutiny from some observers, including former Manchester United star Wayne Rooney. Rooney suggested that Chelsea's senior players should question such extensive rotations. Maresca defended his approach by emphasizing the increased physical demands on modern players.
The first half saw Chelsea struggling to break down a resolute Wolves defense. Sam Johnstone, Wolves' goalkeeper, denied Enzo Fernandez from a free-kick and Alejandro Garnacho in a one-on-one situation. Wolves, under the guidance of caretaker manager James Collins following the sacking of Vitor Pereira, managed to keep Chelsea at bay until halftime.
Chelsea's breakthrough came in the 51st minute when Malo Gusto headed home a cross from Garnacho, marking his first senior career goal. The goal injected new energy into Chelsea's attack. Shortly after, Willian Estevao, a substitute, made an immediate impact by setting up Joao Pedro, who scored Chelsea's second in the 65th minute. Pedro Neto, a former Wolves player, sealed the victory in the 73rd minute, tapping in a cross from Garnacho.
The win highlighted Chelsea's attacking depth and Garnacho's crucial role in the team's offensive plays. Chelsea's victory was their fourth in the last five league games. For Wolves, the defeat deepened their relegation concerns, as they remain winless in the Premier League this season and sit at the bottom of the table, eight points from safety. Their failure to register a single shot in the first half underscored their struggles. The club is currently in talks with Rob Edwards, the Middlesbrough manager, to fill their vacant head coach position.
