Chelsea have been on the wrong end of a fair share of controversial decisions in the Premier League this season that have cost them points.
Enzo Maresca has frequently cut a frustrated figure after games with officials, as he feels the heat of trying to steer the Blues to Champions League qualification at the end of the season.
Chelsea have conceded the joint-most penalties in the league this season with six. Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez has given away two on his own.
| Most Penalties conceded PL 24/25 | Total |
| Chelsea | 6 |
| Brighton | 6 |
| Wolves | 6 |
| Ipswich Town | 5 |
| Manchester United | 4 |
Their next outing in the league is against familiar opposition. Chelsea will be trying to avenge their recent FA Cup defeat to Brighton with another trip to the Amex at the weekend.
Michael Oliver appointed as VAR official for Brighton vs Chelsea
The referee for the occasion will be Chris Kavanagh, who last officiated the Blues in their 0-0 draw with Everton.
In charge of VAR will be Michael Oliver, and Chelsea’s recent history with him as video assistant is not positive.
The Englishman was at Stockley Park for the 2-0 defeat to Ipswich Town, where a controversial penalty was awarded to Blues transfer target Liam Delap.
After a lengthy check, the spot kick was awarded, however Chelsea were left fuming at the decision.
Enzo Maresca was not impressed by the call. He said to BBC Sport: “They said it’s a bit soft but we have to accept it’s a penalty.”
The Athletic stated after the game that the Blues had been charged by the FA for their protests, clearly disgruntled at the decision which led to a Premier League defeat.
Recent VAR calls to go against Chelsea
Chelsea will feel as if a number of calls have not gone their way of late. The penalty decision involving Delap and Filip Jorgensen is right at the top of the list.
The last game officiated by Kavanagh saw Jordan Pickford wipe out Malo Gusto in the penalty area, although no spot kick was awarded and the Blues were held to a 0-0 draw.
They will also feel like David Brooks should have seen red for an offence on Marc Cucurella against Bournemouth at Stamford Bridge. The Blues needed a last-minute Reece James free-kick to rescue a point that day.
The hope will be that Chelsea can keep their discipline in check at the Amex this weekend. The Blues already have the most yellow cards in the league this season.
