The result saw them slip to sixth in the Premier League, reigniting concerns about their inconsistent form under head coach Enzo Maresca.

The Blues have won just one of their last four league matches, a run that echoes the struggles they faced last season under Mauricio Pochettino.

Despite a strong start to the campaign, their recent performances have left them in a familiar mid-table position, frustrating fans who expected more from a squad brimming with talent.

Maresca's decision to point to the "environment" created by supporters as a factor in Ipswich's first-half two-goal lead sparked controversy. Julio Enciso and Ben Johnson struck for the visitors before Chelsea rallied, with an own goal from Axel Tuanzebe and a stunning Jadon Sancho strike rescuing a point.

However, the failure to secure victory against a relegation-threatened side intensified scrutiny on the Italian coach.

Former Premier League striker Clinton Morrison didn't hold back in his assessment, stating on BBC Radio 5 Live, "Maresca's making ridiculous decisions. I know plenty of Chelsea fans, and they're not happy. Five wins in 16 league games isn't good enough, and they'll struggle to stay in the Champions League race with tough fixtures ahead."

Broadcaster Richard Keys was even more scathing, writing in his blog, "Maresca's gone and committed absolute madness by taking on the fans. Suggesting the atmosphere at Stamford Bridge helped Ipswich take a two-goal lead? That's a fast track out of the club.

"I've got mates who are Chelsea supporters, and they're convinced he's more focused on winning the Conference League than finishing top fiveÃ¢”because he might not be here next season."

Keys also questioned the squad's mentality, adding, "Chelsea have a talented group, but they're flaky. It's like they think, Ã¢˜It's only Ipswich, we'll win.' There's no urgency. Maresca doesn't seem to know how to fire them up, and performances like this are far too common."

Maresca, however, defended his approach in his post-match press conference, saying, "The first 20 minutes, we controlled the game, but their goal changed everything. We lost confidence, and the first half wasn't good enough. We adjusted tactically in the second half, created chances, and showed character to come back."

Recent updates from Chelsea's official channels indicate preparations are underway for their next challenge, the second leg of their Conference League quarter-final against Legia Warsaw, where they hold a 3-0 lead from the first leg.

Maresca emphasized the need for focus, stating on the club's website, "We need to stay sharp and finish the job in Europe while pushing to improve in the league."

Fans remain divided, with some expressing support for Maresca's long-term vision, while others, as seen in posts on X, call for greater attacking intent and consistency. One supporter wrote, "Maresca needs to get this team clicking, or the pressure will only grow."

With tough fixtures against Everton, Liverpool, and Manchester United looming, Chelsea face a defining period to salvage their season and restore faith at Stamford Bridge.

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Finished ICC Mens T20 World Cup