EPL: Enzo Maresca defends Wilfred Ndidi amid tackle controversy

By Saheed Afolabi

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has strongly backed Nigeria’s Wilfred Ndidi following criticism over his tackle on Cole Palmer during a recent Premier League clash.

Ndidi, who plays as a defensive midfielder for Leicester City, was involved in a controversial challenge in the 22nd minute when he brought Palmer down from behind.

The tackle sparked calls from Chelsea fans for a red card, with some feeling it was a dangerous challenge.

However, Maresca disagreed with the negative perception surrounding Ndidi’s actions and praised the referees for their decision to issue a yellow card rather than a dismissal.

“I don’t think Cole is the target. I don’t think that,” Maresca stated in his post-match comments.

“I’m not saying Wilf [Ndidi] had bad intentions because I really like Wilf. If there’s bad intention, then the punishment should be different.”

The Chelsea manager also questioned the fairness of some critics, including club legends and fans, who had called for Ndidi’s expulsion, suggesting that the reactions were biased.