During discussions with Chelsea’s board before his official appointment, Enzo Maresca expressed a particular interest in collaborating with a player who had fallen out of favor at the club.
Chelsea, having deliberated over candidates such as Roberto De Zerbi and Miguel Amorim, ultimately chose Maresca, the architect behind Leicester City’s successful promotion drive, as their new managerial appointment.
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‘To join Chelsea, one of the biggest clubs in the world, is a dream for any coach. It is why I am so excited by this opportunity,’ the new Blues boss said following confirmation of his appointment.
‘I look forward to working with a very talented group of players and staff to develop a team that continues the club’s tradition of success and makes our fans proud.’
Enzo Maresca, now comfortably settled into his role, is eager for the club’s senior recruitment team to expedite their efforts in bolstering a squad that showed promise last season.
While initially seeking a new goalkeeper, Maresca is reportedly excited to work with Robert Sanchez, as noted by Fabrizio Romano.
The Spanish goalkeeper, who transferred from Brighton to Chelsea following the exits of Edouard Mendy and Kepa Arrizabalga, had a promising start.
However, his confidence seemed to wane due to an unstable defence, leading to a series of notable mistakes.
After sustaining an injury in a match against Everton in December, the 26-year-old struggled to reclaim his starting position, overshadowed by Djordje Petrovic’s impressive performances.
Sanchez’s subsequent appearances were limited to FA Cup victories over Leeds United and Leicester City, after which he was benched for the semi-final loss to Manchester City.
Despite rumors linking Chelsea with various goalkeepers, including Leicester’s Mads Hermansen, Maresca seems inclined to provide Sanchez with an opportunity to reestablish himself as the first choice.
In addition to a goalkeeper, Chelsea is actively seeking defensive reinforcements, particularly after Thiago Silva’s departure. The club is reportedly nearing a deal to sign Fulham’s Adarabioyo on a free transfer.
The forward line is also a focus, with Chelsea’s interest in Napoli’s Victor Osimhen cooling due to financial considerations. However, the club may revisit their interest in Benjamin Sesko, who is also on Arsenal’s radar.
