Enzo Maresca blames two Chelsea players after Carabao Cup defeat to Newcastle

Chelsea's Carabao Cup journey came to an abrupt end at Newcastle's St James' Park, with a 2-0 loss to the Magpies.

Alexander Isak's strike and Axel Disasi's own goal sealed the Blues' fate.

Maresca's men struggled to cope with Newcastle's relentless attacking play and pressing, despite improving in the second half. Just three days prior, Chelsea had edged Newcastle 2-1 in the Premier League.

"We need to get better at many things," Maresca said post-match.

"We didn't concede any chances because of the press two days ago against them. The other day it was Moi (Moises Caicedo) and Romeo (Lavia), and today it was Renato (Veiga) and Marc (Cucurella)."

Maresca specifically highlighted the differences in midfield performance between the two matches. "We did very well two days ago. We did very well tonight, but there are many things we can do better."

Despite the disappointment, Maresca remains focused on the next challenge. "We're sad we lost the game, of course, because it's something we don't like, but now we have two days to prepare for the next game."

Chelsea will look to regroup and bounce back from this setback.