Former Manchester United striker Wayne Rooney has cautioned that Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca may have placed himself in a precarious position after making comments that seemed to criticize the club’s ownership. 

According to BBC Sport, Maresca described the period leading up to Chelsea’s 2-0 Premier League victory over Everton on Saturday as “the worst 48 hours” since he arrived at Stamford Bridge in June 2024. These remarks have ignited widespread discussion.

On The Wayne Rooney Show on BBC Sounds, Rooney noted that Maresca's comments were intentional and directed at those running the club. “I think it’s very clear that the comments were aimed at the ownership,” Rooney said. “They will recognize that as well. When you say things like that publicly, you’re putting yourself at risk if results don’t go your way.”

Rooney speculated that Maresca’s remarks might have been influenced by internal disagreements or concerns regarding job security, especially considering Chelsea's position in the Premier League standings. “It’s something that’s clearly happened, whether it’s a disagreement or he feels his job is under pressure when it shouldn’t be, given the trophies he’s won and the points he’s accumulated,” Rooney explained.

He added that Maresca does not seem to be the type of manager who would retract his statements. “I don’t feel like he’s a manager who will backtrack. He’s passionate and driven. Whether he’s heard rumors about the club possibly wanting to dismiss him and has taken a proactive stance, we don’t know. But it’s very strange.”

Rooney also compared Maresca’s situation to that of Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim, who previously received public support from co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe. He emphasized that such backing can be crucial during challenging times.

He advised that publicly challenging club owners rarely benefits a manager. “As a manager, you have to respect the people who own the club. If results dip, comments like that can come back to haunt you,” Rooney said.

Despite the victory over Everton relieving some immediate pressure, Rooney suggested that Maresca’s relationship with Chelsea’s hierarchy could be tested if the team continues to be inconsistent.