Maresca Explains Chelsea’s Decision to Bench Caicedo

Moises Caicedo Benched for Burnley: Maresca Cites Late Return

Moises Caicedo’s Late Arrival Forces Chelsea to Plan Carefully

Moises Caicedo was the center of attention as Chelsea fans and pundits questioned why the influential midfielder started on the bench during the Premier League clash against Burnley. Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca addressed these concerns, revealing that the decision was driven solely by Caicedo’s late return to London after international duty with Ecuador. The midfielder played every minute for his national team in two intense friendlies and arrived back in the capital late Thursday, leaving him just one light training session before Saturday’s early kickoff.

Managing Caicedo’s Workload: Maresca’s Protective Approach

Maresca emphasized that the move was not about reserving Caicedo for Chelsea’s looming high-profile fixtures against Barcelona and Arsenal. Instead, the Italian tactician highlighted the need to protect Caicedo from physical burnout. “Nothing to do with Barcelona and Arsenal,” Maresca told TNT Sports. “The reason he is not in the first eleven is that he came back Thursday night from Ecuador, then just a light session with us yesterday, and the reason he is not playing is that it is impossible. To protect him a little bit.”

Caicedo’s Importance to Chelsea and Ecuador

Caicedo’s performances have been crucial both at Stamford Bridge and for the Ecuadorian national team. His dynamic presence in Chelsea’s midfield has earned him praise from teammates, with Robert Sanchez recently declaring him the “best midfielder in the world” after a dominant display against Tottenham. Caicedo’s ability to control the midfield and break up opposition attacks has made him indispensable for Maresca’s side.

At the same time, his influence for Ecuador cannot be understated. Featuring for the full 180 minutes during Ecuador’s goalless draw with Canada and their 2-0 win over New Zealand, Caicedo has become a leader for La Tricolor, helping the team finish a strong CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifying campaign with a second-place defensive record, conceding just five goals in 18 games.

Primary Focus: Keeping Caicedo Fresh for the Busy Schedule

The decision to rest Caicedo against Burnley, though made out of necessity, could have significant long-term benefits for Chelsea. As the club heads into a packed December schedule—including a Carabao Cup quarter-final against Cardiff City and a crucial Champions League encounter with Atalanta—preserving the energy and fitness of key players like Caicedo becomes paramount. The demanding English football calendar, particularly during the festive period, often leads to fatigue and injuries; managing Caicedo’s workload now may help Chelsea avoid a deeper midfield crisis later.

Looking Ahead: Chelsea’s Upcoming Fixtures

With eight matches in December, including marquee clashes with domestic and European giants, Chelsea will need their squad in top condition. Caicedo’s absence against Burnley may have disappointed some supporters, but his rest could prove strategic as the Blues navigate a potentially season-defining run.

Expert Opinion: Maresca’s Pragmatism is Wise

Benchings like these often stir debate, yet Maresca’s decision reflects a modern, player-centric approach. Given Caicedo’s relentless international workload and importance to both club and country, protecting him from overexertion is smart management. While fans always want their best players on the pitch, ensuring Caicedo is available and at his peak for the most critical fixtures may be the difference between a successful and a frustrating campaign for Chelsea. For more news and updates, visit for more news.