Chelsea Q&A: Could next two games be critical for Maresca's future?

You have been sending your questions in for our Chelsea reporter Nizaar Kinsella:

Michael asked: The next two games, one with Barcelona and another with Arsenal, are true tests for Maresca's system and the Chelsea team. What do you see as critical factors that would lead Chelsea to two wins? If the team fails both tests, would you say that Maresca's tenure at the club is over?

Nizaar: I understand that some fans remain unconvinced by Enzo Maresca, even after the Club World Cup win, but I don't believe defeats to Barcelona and Arsenal would be viewed as a major internal issue. Chelsea are taking a long-term approach and will assess Maresca's performance at the end of the season. Even with those losses, he would still be in a position to secure a top-four finish and qualification for at least the play-off round of the Champions League knockout stages. That said, such results may prompt external questions about Maresca or the project more widely.