Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca handed one-match ban and £8,000 fine

football

Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca has been handed a one-match touchline ban along with an £8,000 (10,700 USD) fine following his red card during Chelsea’s Premier League victory over Liverpool earlier this month.

The Italian tactician was shown a second yellow card by referee Anthony Taylor after stepping out of his technical area to celebrate Estevao Willian’s dramatic 95th-minute winning goal against the reigning champions. The Football Association (FA) confirmed the punishment in an official statement, citing improper conduct and the use of abusive or insulting language that led to Maresca’s dismissal in stoppage time.

Maresca, who took full responsibility for his actions, admitted the charge and accepted the standard penalty. As a result, the 45-year-old will not be on the touchline for Chelsea’s upcoming away fixture against Nottingham Forest on Saturday. Assistant coach Willy Caballero is set to lead the team from the sidelines in his absence.

This is Maresca’s second touchline suspension since becoming Chelsea’s manager in June 2024. His previous ban came in April 2025 after he picked up his third yellow card of the season for celebrating a last-minute goal against Fulham.

Despite the setback, Maresca has been praised for revitalizing Chelsea’s attacking style and restoring confidence among the players. The Blues will look to maintain their strong league form as they aim for a top-four finish under their ambitious Italian coach.