Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has backed his young squad to keep growing as the Blues prepare for Tuesday night’s Champions League clash with Benfica. Speaking to the press, the Italian highlighted the impact of summer arrivals who are already adding quality and experience to his side., Softfootball reports.
Several of Chelsea’s signings came with European know-how, a factor Maresca believes will be vital in the weeks ahead. Jamie Gittens featured in the Champions League for Borussia Dortmund, while Alejandro Garnacho arrives from Manchester United with similar experience.
Jorrel Hato, despite his age, captained Ajax in Europe, and João Pedro has already written himself into Chelsea history after scoring in both the Club World Cup semi-final and final.
Speaking to the press via the team’s official website, ahead of the crucial UCL game against benfica on tuesday night, Maresca stated that these players provide a solid foundation for his team’s growth on the biggest stage, he said;
“We have Garnacho and Gittens that, even though they are young, have already played in this competition,” noted Maresca.
Joao Pedro has never played in this competition, but when he joined us he helped us win the Club World Cup, and Hato will be a top player for Chelsea.
They are all talented players who are going to help the club and the team, and with more games they are going to be better and better.”
One of the most exciting Player who joined the blues this summer, Estevão Willian, is adjusting not only to the Champions League but also to English football for the first time. The 18-year-old winger, signed from Palmeiras, has already made seven appearances for the blues and has shown glimpses of the flair that made him one of Brazil’s top prospects.
Maresca acknowledged the tough situation but praised the teenager’s adaptation and attitude, he said;
He is doing very well. We have already said it’s not easy to come to Europe at 18 years old at a big club like Chelsea and show immediately the quality he has. We are very happy with him.
He’s a very good boy, he’s happy, and he’s what we need in terms of energy.
With Benfica up next, Maresca insists Chelsea’s young signings will be crucial as the Blues aim to translate their early promise into consistency on Europe’s grandest stage.
