Despite perceptions of the UEFA Conference League as a secondary competition, history shows that teams who take it seriously benefit in the long run—something Chelsea and Enzo Maresca cannot afford to ignore.
While some dismiss the UEFA Conference League as a minor competition, its impact on clubs cannot be underestimated. Last season’s quarter-finalists, including Aston Villa, Club Brugge, and Olympiacos, have since progressed to higher European competitions, proving that success in the tournament builds long-term resilience and experience.
Chelsea, a young and developing team under Enzo Maresca, should use the competition to gain European experience and develop squad cohesion, much like how Newcastle’s Champions League campaign strengthened their adaptability. With Champions League qualification on the line next season, Chelsea would benefit from taking the Conference League seriously—both as a route to silverware and as a crucial learning experience. Ignoring it, or treating it as a distraction, could put Maresca’s position at risk.
