Maresca Warns Chelsea of ‘Very Difficult’ Test Against Giant-Killers Crystal Palace

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has sounded a note of caution ahead of Sunday’s Premier League clash against Crystal Palace at Stamford Bridge, describing the encounter as “very difficult.”

The warning comes as Palace ride a wave of confidence after toppling England’s biggest footballing giants in recent months. The Eagles stunned Manchester City to lift the FA Cup last season and followed it up with a dramatic victory over Liverpool in the Community Shield just last weekend.

Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Friday, Maresca acknowledged Palace’s remarkable scalps:

“Sunday’s game will be very difficult. [Crystal Palace won] the Community Shield against Liverpool and the FA Cup against Manchester City. So, in two finals, they beat two of the best teams in England in the last fifteen years. It shows how complicated it’ll be on Sunday.”

Opinion:
Maresca’s respect for Crystal Palace is well-earned. Patrick Vieira’s men — or as some fans now call them, “The Giant-Killers” — have shown they’re not just here to make up the numbers. Beating both Liverpool and City in high-stakes finals is no fluke; it’s a statement.

For Chelsea, Sunday is more than just a home fixture — it’s a mental test. Underestimating Palace could be costly, and with Stamford Bridge expecting fireworks, the Blues will need both composure and creativity to break down a side that thrives under pressure.

In short: Palace may be visiting, but they’ve already proven they can make themselves right at home in the spotlight.