Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca expressed his hopes last night that winning the Conference League title will serve as the “launching pad for future triumphs” for the club. He emphasized that securing the trophy will foster a winning mindset within his team.

“We aspire for this victory to be a foundation for greater success moving forward. To cultivate a winning mentality, it’s essential to secure wins in matches and tournaments. Undoubtedly, the trophy we claimed will enhance our performance,” Maresca remarked, as noted on the club’s official website.

Chelsea claimed the Conference League title by overcoming Betis with a 4-1 victory in the final held in Wroclaw on Wednesday.

At halftime, Betis held a 1-0 advantage, and Maresca pointed out that his team’s preparation was hampered due to having two fewer days of rest compared to the Spanish side.

“You can’t afford to give any team an edge, and that 48-hour difference between us and them is significant,” he stated.

The Chelsea manager went on to highlight that his squad needed to contend for a Champions League spot until the end of the Premier League season, while Betis had already confirmed their sixth-place finish following a loss to Atletico Madrid on May 18.

“They played a match without competitive stakes on Friday, but we fought for 100 minutes on Sunday until the very end to secure something important,” Maresca noted.

He mentioned that his team adjusted certain tactical aspects during halftime, showing substantial improvement in the second half, and added that everyone at the club is thrilled with the achievement.

Chelsea concluded the season in fourth place in the Premier League, ensuring direct qualification for the Champions League.

“I take great pride in the journey we’ve undertaken in the Premier League. It’s the most intense league globally, demanding consistency over 38 matches, and these players have proven their capability. Achieving this with the youngest team in Premier League history is truly remarkable,” Maresca concluded.

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