‘I can’t believe what I’ve just watched’ – Paul Merson taken aback by moment in Chelsea vs Brentford

Football pundit Paul Merson expressed shock at a pivotal moment during Chelsea's Premier League clash against Brentford, labeling it "pathetic" in a scathing critique of manager Enzo Maresca's decisions.[1]

Merson, a Sky Sports columnist, was flabbergasted by Maresca's team selection for the match. "I couldn't believe the team Enzo Maresca put out at Brentford. When that team came out, I was flabbergasted. It was pathetic," he wrote.[1] He argued that Chelsea must prioritize Champions League qualification above all, dismissing a potential sixth-place finish and Europa Conference League win as a "shocker."[1]

The controversy stemmed from Maresca reportedly rotating heavily ahead of a Europa Conference League quarter-final against Legia Warsaw, which Merson deemed winnable. "You have to beat Brentford," he insisted, noting that a victory there, followed by a win over Ipswich, would have secured Champions League football with six games left.[1] Instead, Chelsea struggled until substitutes like Cole Palmer and Nicolas Jackson entered, dominating proceedings.[1]

In a separate but related incident during the game—dated January 17, 2026—Chelsea took a 2-0 lead. Liam Delap, coming off the bench, chased a loose touch from Brentford keeper Caominh Kelleher, earning a penalty after being fouled. Palmer, despite a poor showing, converted brilliantly.[2] Enzo Fernandez had earlier opened the scoring by blocking a clearance for Joao Pedro to finish.[2]

Merson's outburst highlights Chelsea's precarious top-four push, potentially needing to overtake Manchester City. He contrasted this with Tottenham's injury-hit Europa League campaign, predicting their progression.[1] The pundit, a former Arsenal star known for candid takes,[3] questioned Maresca's priorities amid Chelsea's inconsistent form—one win in nine league games pre-match.[6]

Defender Tosin impressed before an injury exit, adding to Chelsea's woes.[2] Merson's reaction underscores the high stakes, with fans and experts demanding Premier League focus over European "safety nets."[1]

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