Maresca backs Haaland's view on players starting season fatigued

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has lent his support to Erling Haaland's observation that players across the Premier League started the campaign feeling fatigued, citing the compressed schedule and limited rest following international commitments.

Haaland, who has netted three times in three league outings so far this season, did not participate in Manchester City's pre-season warm-up fixtures. Despite the lack of preparatory matches, the Norwegian striker has made an immediate impact in the league.

Maresca's endorsement of Haaland's perspective highlights a broader concern among top-flight managers about player workload and recovery time at the start of the campaign. The fixture congestion across European competitions and domestic leagues has become an increasingly contentious issue in professional football.

The early-season fatigue factor may explain the inconsistent performances from several leading players and teams during the opening matches. With the season progressing, managers will be looking to manage their squads carefully to maintain form throughout the long campaign ahead.