Chelsea Manager Enzo Maresca Banned for Nottingham Forest Clash After Wild Celebration

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has been handed a one-match touchline suspension and an £8,000 fine by the Football Association (FA) following his exuberant celebration during the club’s dramatic 2-1 victory over Liverpool earlier this month.

The incident occurred during stoppage time at Stamford Bridge when young forward Estevão Willian scored a late winner for Chelsea. Overcome with emotion, Maresca charged down the touchline to celebrate with his players, prompting the referee to issue him a second yellow card. Earlier in the match, he had already received a booking for protesting a penalty decision.

The FA confirmed that Maresca admitted to improper conduct and accepted the punishment. As a result, he will not be allowed in the technical area during Chelsea’s upcoming Premier League fixture against Nottingham Forest, leaving his assistant coaches in charge of touchline duties.

Following the match, Maresca defended his actions, saying his reaction was purely instinctive. “It was an emotional moment. Sometimes, passion takes over. Even if I got sent off, it was worth it,” he told reporters.

Chelsea’s victory over Liverpool was crucial, coming after back-to-back defeats that had intensified pressure on the Italian manager early in the season. The win lifted the team’s morale and helped stabilize their campaign.

However, the FA’s disciplinary decision serves as a reminder of the need for composure on the sidelines, even in moments of triumph. While Maresca’s fiery celebration highlighted his deep connection with the squad, it also crossed the line of official conduct expected from managers in professional football.

Chelsea will now aim to maintain their winning momentum in Maresca’s absence when they take on Nottingham Forest this weekend.