Enzo Maresca will serve a one-match touchline ban after his exuberant celebrations during Chelsea’s dramatic 2-1 victory over Fulham resulted in him receiving a third yellow card of the season.

The Chelsea manager was given a caution by referee Anthony Taylor after Pedro Neto scored the 93rd-minute winner at Craven Cottage, which came moments after Tyrique George had equalized for Fulham. The dramatic nature of the victory, which saw Chelsea clinch all three points late in the game, sparked intense celebrations from the entire Chelsea bench, with several members of the team rushing onto the pitch in jubilation.

As a result of the yellow card, Maresca has now reached the threshold for an automatic suspension, according to the FA's disciplinary rules. This marks his third yellow card of the season, having previously been booked during matches against Bournemouth and Newcastle. The suspension will see him sidelined from the touchline for Chelsea’s next match, a critical encounter against Everton on Saturday, where they will be looking to continue their push for a top-four finish in the Premier League and maintain their Champions League ambitions.

Speaking after the match, Maresca admitted that his emotions got the better of him. “I was very happy,” he said. “It was a moment for the players to share with the fans… I celebrated, and that’s why I got the yellow.” While Maresca expressed his excitement and passion for the victory, it ultimately led to the sanction. His celebration had clearly been fueled by the joy of the late winner, but it came at the cost of missing the upcoming fixture from the touchline.

With Maresca absent from the touchline, assistant coach Willy Caballero will step in to lead the team during their upcoming match against Everton. Caballero, a trusted member of the coaching staff, will take over managerial duties for the game, while Maresca will be relegated to a seat in the stands. This marks an important moment for the Chelsea manager as he watches from afar, with the Blues eager to continue their strong run of form in the Premier League and secure a crucial three points in their bid to finish in the top four.