Storm Clouds Gather at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea's 3-1 collapse against Brighton marked a new low in Enzo Maresca's reign, with boos ringing out at full-time after Trevoh Chalobah's second straight red card proved costly. The defeat leaves the Blues 8th in the table with just 8 points from 6 matches - far below their Champions League qualification target.

Boardroom Tensions Surface

Five senior club officials, including co-owner Behdad Eghbali, stormed the dressing room post-match - a move Maresca downplayed:

"We routinely debrief in the changing room office. Nothing unusual."

However, sources reveal the hierarchy is reviewing the Italian's position after:

• Public criticism of transfer strategy
• Questionable substitutions
• 2 consecutive league losses

Defensive Dilemma Exposed

Maresca's preseason warnings about defensive depth proved prophetic. With four center-backs injured, the manager told BBC Sport:

"The club knows my thoughts. Only Colwill offers our required build-up quality."

Fan Fury Boils Over

Supporters voiced frustration on social media:

• "Maresca's subs killed our attack!" - @CFCLouie
• "Where's the experienced leadership?" - Harry_CFC
• "Same naive mistakes every week!" - Saqib_Blue

Crucial Tests Loom

With Benfica (UCL) and Liverpool (PL) next, Maresca faces make-or-break fixtures. As Alan Shearer noted:

"At Chelsea, two losses equal crisis. The pressure cooker is heating up."

The manager's handling of key decisions - from team selection to media relations - will determine if he survives this early-season storm.