Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca explains substitutions during Aston Villa defeat, with Cucurella leaving with possible hamstring injury and Palmer showing frustration.

Chelsea suffered a 2-1 defeat to Aston Villa, with Enzo Maresca making substitutions that sparked interest. Marc Cucurella was replaced by Malo Gusto, with Maresca citing a hamstring issue.

“He was complaining about his hamstring, so we don’t know if it’s an injury or not. He asked for the change,” Maresca explained. Cucurella is the first Chelsea player to play over 2000 minutes this season.

Cole Palmer was also substituted, taken off in the 72nd minute for Estevao Willian. Palmer appeared frustrated, but Maresca dismissed concerns. “No, he was working very well. On the ball and off the ball, pressing – he was very good,” Maresca said.

The substitutions came after a dominant first half, with Joao Pedro opening the scoring. However, Aston Villa turned the game around with two goals from substitute Ollie Watkins.

Maresca is concerned about Cucurella’s hamstring issue, which could impact Chelsea’s upcoming fixtures. The Blues face Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge on Tuesday evening.

Despite the defeat, Maresca praised Palmer’s performance, saying he’s happy to have him back. Chelsea will look to bounce back against Bournemouth.