‘I am in love’ - Maresca lauds one Chelsea player's performance after Conference League victory
i

Enzo Maresca was pleased with one of his players after Chelsea secured a commendable victory over Legia Warsaw (Credit: Chelsea)

‘I am in love’ - Maresca lauds one Chelsea player's performance after Conference League victory

Seye Omidiora 12:10 - 11.04.2025

Enzo Maresca was pleased with one of his players after Chelsea secured a commendable victory over Legia Warsaw.

Enzo Maresca has singled out one of his Chelsea players for praise after the Blues' 3-0 Conference League success over Legia Warsaw.

Despite an average first half, the West London club turned the screw after the interlude, scoring three times in the second to put one foot in the semis. 

Tyrique George opened the scoring for Chelsea before Noni Madueke notched a brace, the second coming moments after Christopher Nkunku had a penalty saved by Legia goalkeeper Kacper Tobiasz

Tyrique George and Noni Madueke
Tyrique George and Noni Madueke celebrate one of Chelsea's goals against Legia (Credit: Chelsea)

Although George scored his first Chelsea goal and Madueke notched two, Maresca praised the showing of another player. 

PAY ATTENTION: Check out Bet of the Day page - we provide expert tips

Maresca singles out Josh Acheampong

Maresca was keen to highlight the performance of Josh Acheampong against Legia.

The manager praised Acheampong's versatility and willingness to adapt to different roles.   

Josh Acheampong
Josh Acheampong in action for Chelsea against Legia (Credit: Chelsea)

The 18-year-old started the UEFA Conference League quarter-final at right-back, where he displayed attacking intent and attempted to penetrate the Legia box. 

Later in the game, the teenager moved into central midfield, where he again impressed with his passing and tackling.   

Maresca was enthusiastic about Acheampong's potential, stating that he could be a "fantastic player" for Chelsea. 

The Italian emphasised the youngster’s ability to perform well in various positions, including right-back, midfield and centre-back.

Josh Acheampong
Josh Acheampong in action for Chelsea against Legia (Credit: Chelsea)

“The one I fell in love with tonight was Josh Acheampong," said Maresca after the game. “For me potentially he can be a fantastic player for this club and in football in general.

“Since we started, I am in love with him, but tonight he showed he can be a very good player for this club.

Maresca also praised Acheampong's attitude, noting his openness to learning and his willingness to play wherever the team needs him make the young player a valuable asset. 

“A good player shows you they can play in different positions,” added Maresca.

“He was full-back good, midfielder good, central defender good. It’s not about playing in that position, or that position. If you are a good player, you can play in different positions.

“He can be good in different positions. The best thing about Josh also is he is open. He wants to learn. Full-back? Okay, no problem. What do I have to do? Perfect. Midfielder? What do I have to do? 

“This is a player who wants to play in all positions, who wants to learn. Josh is doing that since we started.”

What next for Chelsea?

Chelsea welcome relegation-threatened Ipswich to Stamford Bridge in Premier League action this weekend. 

The return leg in London will be held next Thursday.