Maresca: I have 'fallen in love' with Chelsea youngster

Suraj Radia

10 Apr 2025 21:40 BST
3 min read

Enzo Maresca has hinted he could have found the solution to his defensive problems after revealing he has ‘fallen in love’ with one of Chelsea’s young stars.

Article continues under the video

Chelsea eased to a 3-0 win away at Legia Warsaw in the first leg of their Europa Conference League quarter final with a number of fringe players getting the chance for a run out.

Fabrizio Romano Transfer News: Nico Williams makes Arsenal decision

Tyrique George grabbed his first senior goal in the win but Maresca admitted it was defender Josh Acheampong who impressed him the most after starring in multiple positions across the match.

“The one that I fell in love tonight is Josh Acheampong because, for me, potentially he can be fantastic player, a top player for this club, for the football in general,” Maresca said.

“A good player shows you that he can play in different positions and he can do good. He was full back, good, midfielder, good, central defender, good, so it's not about ‘I play in that position or in that position’, if you are a good player you can be in different positions.

"And tonight I fell in love with Josh because, to be honest since we start, I'm in love with him but tonight he showed that he can be a very good player for this club."

READ MORE: Chelsea top scorers 2024/25

Acheampong providing Reece James impact to Chelsea

Maresca has constantly tweaked his team, particularly in cup competitions, trialling players in new roles such as captain Reece James, who featured in midfield in the last round against Copenhagen.

Acheampong was given similar treatment on Thursday, initially starting at right-back before moving into the heart of defence and eventually into midfield, giving Maresca faith that the 18-year-old can continue to provide an impact for Chelsea.

© IMAGO - Josh Acheampong impressed for Chelsea against Legia.

"He can be good in different positions and the best thing from Josh is that he's open, he wants to learn,” Maresca continued.

“'Ok, full back? No problem, what do I have to do? 'Perfect, midfielder, what do I have to do?' and this is a player that they are, good player, they want to play in all position, they want to learn and Josh is doing that since we start.”