Chelsea secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Leicester City at Stamford Bridge, but fan frustration was evident despite the three points.
Marc Cucurella’s stunning long-range strike proved the difference, though the Blues struggled throughout the match.
Enzo Maresca’s side dominated possession and registered 20 shots, with Leicester goalkeeper Mads Hermansen making six saves.
However, clear-cut chances were rare, and Chelsea squandered their best opportunity when Cole Palmer missed a first-half penalty.
The Stamford Bridge crowd voiced their discontent with Chelsea’s patient passing style, booing at half-time and expressing frustration throughout the match.
Though there were no organised protests, unlike the fan demonstration against the club’s ownership before the recent defeat to Southampton, dissatisfaction remains high.
Maresca addressed the criticism post-match, dismissing what he sees as unrealistic expectations from supporters.
“The people have to understand this is our way, our style, and this is the way we are going to play,” Maresca told his post-match press conference.
“When a team creates the amount of chances we created, you have to be happy. It’s not easy.
“Leicester, until minute 83, were 0-0 against Arsenal; the same thing happened against [Manchester] City. If you think football is just a PlayStation [game] and you win easily, no way – every game is difficult. The way the players have done is fantastic.
“We need our fans. On my Instagram, I said two days ago our Champions League [qualification] target will be with our fans supporting us, especially when you play at home. We need them behind the players with the spirit they showed.”
