By Coach Samuel Kusi Appiah
When Chelsea announced the arrival of Enzo Maresca as head of their backroom staff, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of curiosity and uncertainty. Sure, we have seen the Blues splash out on big-name players, but bringing in a figure like Maresca, a name more familiar in coaching circles than on the global stage felt like a different kind of move.
Maresca comes with a reputation as a tactician, someone who thinks deeply about the game. After all, he’s worked with the likes of Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, soaking up wisdom in one of the best coaching setups in the world. But let’s be real, bringing someone like him into the high-stakes environment of Stamford Bridge? That’s where the “uncertainty” part of the title of this piece comes in.
Don’t get me wrong, I love a calculated gamble, and Chelsea’s track record with bold decisions is… errmm… well, mixed, to say the least. Remember when André Villas-Boas was supposed to be the next José Mourinho? Or when Lampard was given the reins as head coach? It’s always a toss-up. But Maresca’s role isn’t about being in the spotlight, it’s about quietly shaping the team’s dynamics, and that’s where I think he is already shining.
How Maresca is transforming Chelsea into tittle contenders this season and probably beyond
When Enzo Maresca took charge at Chelsea, expectations were tempered by skepticism. The club had endured a rollercoaster few seasons with managerial changes, inconsistent performances, and an unsettled squad. Yet, in a short span, Maresca is turning the narrative around, transforming Chelsea into genuine title contenders. His success isn’t accidental—it’s the result of meticulous planning, innovative tactics, and a clear vision for the future. Here’s how he’s done it.
- Establishing a Clear Identity
One of Maresca’s first tasks was to instill a defined playing style, something Chelsea had been missing. Drawing from his time working with Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, Maresca has implemented a possession-based system that emphasizes control, creativity, and pressing. The team now plays with a purpose, building from the back and creating structured attacking patterns.
Players who previously looked out of sync are now thriving under a system that gives them clear roles. The midfield, led by Enzo Fernández, is the heartbeat of the team, dictating the tempo and transitioning fluidly between defense and attack.
- Tactical Flexibility
While Maresca has a clear philosophy, he isn’t rigid in his approach. He’s shown a willingness to adapt tactics based on the opposition, which has made Chelsea a more versatile and unpredictable side. Against possession-heavy teams, Chelsea has pressed high and countered with devastating effect. Against low blocks, they have patiently broken down defenses.
This tactical flexibility has been a key factor in Chelsea’s success in both the Premier League and the Conference League, where they are favorites to lift the trophy.
- Building a Winning Mentality
Perhaps the most significant change Maresca has brought is a renewed sense of belief within the squad. The players look confident, motivated, and hungry for success. Training sessions are reportedly intense and focused, fostering a competitive atmosphere.
Maresca’s calm demeanor and clear communication have also helped reduce the pressure that often weighs heavily at a club like Chelsea. The team now plays with freedom and determination, which has translated into consistent performances.
- Strengthening the Squad
While Maresca has made the most of the players at his disposal, he’s also been instrumental in shaping the squad through smart recruitment. Targeting players who fit his system, rather than just big names, has ensured that every new addition adds value. A typical example is the addition of Jaden Sancho who has stepped up in the last few games he has played.
This careful squad planning has created depth, allowing Chelsea to compete in multiple competitions without losing momentum.
The Road Ahead
Under Maresca’s guidance, Chelsea currently sits second on the Premier League table, and it feels like chelsea has rediscovered who they are as a club. After seasons of inconsistency and managerial turmoil, Maresca has brought stability and a clear identity to their game. Watching them play now is exciting because they dominate possession, control the tempo, and attack with purpose. It’s like a breath of fresh air. But it’s not just the Premier League where Maresca’s influence is shining. Chelsea are also favorites to win the Conference League.
Of course, uncertainty comes with the territory. Bringing in someone like Maresca, who’s still carving his path as a top-tier manager, would be a gamble for a club like Chelsea. But isn’t football all about taking risks? Leicester gambled on him, and look, they are back playing in the premier league.
Here’s the thing : football is about taking risks. It’s about experimenting with new ideas and trusting that, with the right people in place, those ideas can flourish. Enzo Maresca might be an unconventional gift, but sometimes it’s the unexpected ones that leave the biggest impact.
Enzo Maresca might have been a gamble, but he’s turning out to be exactly what Chelsea needed. A gift wrapped in uncertainty, yes, but one that’s proving to be priceless.
Here’s to the rest of the journey.
Up the Blues!
