The Blues produced a brilliant performance to defeat Barcelona 3-0 in the UEFA Champions League in midweek and take another big step towards qualification for the knockout rounds of that competition.

There is no time to bask in the glory of that result, though, as attention quickly switched to another tough challenge in the Premier League this weekend, when we are back at Stamford Bridge to host top-of-the-table Arsenal.

Unsurprisingly after that European victory and given our position of second in the Premier League table, Maresca sees his team heading into this crucial match in good form and full of confidence.

‘The mindset and mood in this moment is very good because we are doing quite good in the Premier League and quite well in the Champions League,’ he said.

‘It’s a good feeling that we can see we are improving and growing. This is the best feeling for us.

‘I think for sure it’s different compared to one year ago. That’s because we have spent a year together and have gone through moments where we can learn.

‘Then again, for me it’s very early. It’s the end of November, so it’s very early and it’s important to be where we are now in March or April. Then we will see.’

There is excitement among the supporters about what could be achieved this season, following on from our triumphs in the UEFA Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup already in 2025.

Although our head coach knows it is still early in the season to judge this young squad’s chances of claiming more silverware in the current campaign, he believes those successes have been vital in building the mentality within the team.

‘For me, personally, I’ve said that the only way to build a winning mentality is to win games, no matter the competition,’ continued Maresca.

‘We are going in the right direction and we have players inside the changing room who are leaders and are growing in this aspect. That is very important, especially when you have a group like our squad.

‘These players in 16, 17, 18 months together have shown they can beat teams. In the Premier League last year, we had some good moments where we were able to beat teams, then PSG in the Club World Cup final.

‘This season against Liverpool, Barcelona, and we compete always. Sometimes we are able to win and sometimes we are not able to win, but we compete against every team.’

The excitement from the supporters could also play a part. There was a buzz inside Stamford Bridge during the win over Barcelona, and scenes of celebration on the pitch and in the stands at the final whistle will live long in the memory, leaving Maresca hoping for more of the same when Arsenal come to west London on Sunday.

‘Absolutely, that can help us,’ added Enzo. ‘We need that environment and the fans in the way they were. It’s always nice to share that kind of moment at the end of the game with everyone.’

Chelsea Foundation will be hosting a 'Magic of Blue' collection point at Britannia Gate ahead of Chelsea vs Arsenal for supporters to donate gifts. All gifts need to be in their original packaging and we are not able to accept food or drink items. Items welcome for donation include:

- Soft cosy blankets
- Unisex warm socks/Slipper socks (with grip bottoms)
- Gloves/Mittens/Hats/Scarves
- Craft kits/Puzzles/Crossword books
- Photo albums/Notebooks/2026 diaries and calendars
- Christmas decorations

Supporters are also able to donate money to support those experiencing loneliness at ChelseaFC.com/MagicOfBlue. So help support Chelsea FC Foundation by donating or sharing with your friends.