“I know that he has been vital to our team attack but he can’t continue to behave in this manner. He’s young and he needs to learn discipline. He’s going to be on the bench till I see that he has changed his attitude” – Enzo Maresca reveals why he benched key Chelsea star due to poor attitude in training, saying the player ‘must improve’.

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has made headlines once again — not for his tactics or Chelsea’s improving form — but for his hardline stance on discipline within his squad. Speaking to reporters ahead of Chelsea’s upcoming Premier League clash against Sunderland, Maresca confirmed that striker Marc Guiu was benched due to a poor attitude in training, despite being one of the team’s most promising young talents.

The revelation has sent waves through the Chelsea fanbase. Guiu, who recently returned from his loan spell at Sunderland, was expected to play a pivotal role in Chelsea’s attack, particularly as the club continues to rebuild under Maresca. However, his lack of professionalism in training has put him on the wrong side of his manager — a move that underscores the Italian’s commitment to discipline and culture over individual stardom.

“It’s simple,” Maresca said bluntly during the pre-match press conference. “Marc is a talented player, and we all know how vital he can be for our attack. But talent alone isn’t enough. He has to understand what it means to train at the highest level every day. We spoke two weeks ago, and I told him I wasn’t happy with his attitude in training. He needed to change — and only then would he earn his place.”

According to insiders, Maresca’s criticism was far from superficial. Sources claim the coach was frustrated by Guiu’s casual approach in team drills and his tendency to lose focus during tactical sessions. “It wasn’t one specific issue,” Maresca explained. “It was in all aspects. I expect intensity, humility, and effort — those are non-negotiables for me.”

The Chelsea boss has gained a reputation for being brutally honest with his players. This is not the first time he’s taken a tough stance. Last season, Maresca benched winger Noni Madueke for similar reasons, citing lack of commitment in training. At the time, fans were divided — but Madueke’s eventual resurgence and improved form vindicated the manager’s approach.

Guiu’s situation, though, is particularly delicate. The 19-year-old striker has shown flashes of brilliance since returning to Stamford Bridge, including an impressive debut performance that hinted at his potential to become Chelsea’s next breakthrough star. Yet, Maresca’s decision serves as a stark reminder that youth and promise mean little without discipline and consistency.

Despite the controversy, Maresca’s methods appear to be resonating with the squad. Rather than rebelling against his authority, players have publicly backed his leadership. One senior player reportedly told journalists, “The manager doesn’t play favourites — if you don’t give 100%, you sit out. Everyone knows the standard.”

Meanwhile, Maresca provided an update on striker Liam Delap’s recovery, offering a glimpse of good news for Chelsea fans. Delap, who suffered a hamstring injury earlier this month, is recovering faster than expected and could return to the squad as early as next week. That development could further limit Guiu’s opportunities, increasing the pressure on the young forward to prove his professionalism.

For Guiu, the message is crystal clear — improve your attitude, or risk being left behind. “He’s young,” Maresca said, softening his tone slightly. “He’ll learn. This is part of growing up as a professional. My job is not just to win games but to help players understand what it takes to succeed at Chelsea.”

The decision has sparked debate among pundits and fans alike. Some praise Maresca for maintaining high standards and building a culture of accountability, while others warn that publicly calling out young players could damage their confidence. Yet, given Maresca’s track record, few doubt that this tough love approach comes from a desire to nurture long-term success rather than short-term punishment.

As Chelsea prepares to face Sunderland, all eyes will be on Maresca’s team sheet — and on whether Marc Guiu’s name remains absent from the starting lineup. One thing, however, is beyond question: under Enzo Maresca, discipline is not optional, and no player, no matter how talented, is above the standard he demands.