Maresca Banned After Wild Chelsea Celebration

Too Much Passion at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca will have to watch his team from the stands this weekend.
The Italian has received a one-match touchline ban after being sent off during his side’s dramatic win over Liverpool earlier this month.

When Estevao Willian fired in a 95th-minute winner against the champions, Maresca sprinted out of his technical area to celebrate with his players — and that’s when referee Anthony Taylor pulled out a second yellow card.

FA Confirms Suspension and Fine

According to the Football Association, Maresca’s actions were deemed improper and abusive in nature, leading to his dismissal in the 96th minute.
The Chelsea manager accepted the charge and the standard punishment, which includes a £8,000 fine alongside his suspension.

He had already been booked earlier in the match for showing dissent from the sidelines — and that first yellow proved costly in the end.

Caballero Steps In

Maresca will now miss Chelsea’s next match away at Nottingham Forest, leaving his assistant Willy Caballero in charge on the touchline.
The game will mark Maresca’s second suspension since taking over as a Premier League manager in June 2024.

His first came in April 2025, when he picked up a third yellow card of the season after an emotional celebration of Pedro Neto’s late winner against Fulham.

The Verdict

Maresca’s passion is clear — but once again, it’s come at a price.
The Blues will need to carry his fire into Saturday’s clash without him on the sidelines.