Maresca wants European Treble with Chelsea to validate club's resurgence

Enzo Maresca has stated that Chelsea winning the Conference League would be a significant statement, proving the club's resurgence. 

Following their comfortable 4-1 victory in the first leg of their semi-final against Djurgarden, Maresca believes lifting the trophy in Wroclaw on May 28 would mark a turning point for the Blues.

Maresca acknowledged that the Conference League might not be the competition Chelsea typically aims for, but stressed the importance of winning trophies to build a "winners' mentality". 

The Italian also highlighted that it is the only major European trophy the London club has yet to win, offering them a unique opportunity.

"Yes, for me, winning a trophy, the Conference League, is a statement to say Chelsea is back,” said Maresca in Wednesday’s press conference.

"Because, firstly, you win a trophy and then, if Real Madrid or different clubs didn't play the Conference League, it's because the Conference League is not the level they were at.

"If we play in the Conference League, it's because that's where we are - we need to start from there.

"It's the only trophy that Chelsea didn't win in the past and Chelsea can become the first club in Europe to win all the European competitions, so it's also good for the club.

"From there we will try to win the semi and final. It is a good place to start to build a winners' mentality to win games and trophies.

"In the future we hope we can be in different competitions but at the moment the reality is the reality."

Despite the vast disparity in squad value between the Blues and Djurgarden, Maresca insists they are taking the second leg seriously.

Chelsea take on Newcastle United after their European semi-final, aiming to enhance their prospects of playing Champions League football next season. 

Maresca’s team enter Sunday’s game occupying the fifth and final spot for Europe’s most prestigious club competition.