Leicester City player Kasey McAteer believes one current Chelsea star could thrive under new manager Enzo Maresca.
Chelsea confirmed the appointment of Maresca on Monday afternoon with the Italian signing a five year contract at Stamford Bridge.
The 44-year-old led the Foxes to the Championship title last season, and will now be tasked with winning silverware and getting the Blues back into the Champions League.
McAteer believes Chukwuemeka can thrive under Maresca
Maresca will be under pressure from day one and will need to get his tactics and ideas across to the players quickly.
Chelsea chiefs were impressed with his heavy possession based style of football and will no doubt expect to see it implemented as quickly as possible.
During the Blues pre-season tour of America it will become a lot clearer the roles each player will have in Maresca’s system and what he sees as his preferred starting line-up.
A new manager is a new chance for every player to stake their claim for a place in the team, and McAteer, who worked under Maresca last season believes Chukwuemeka could really thrive in his system.
The midfielder was specifically asked on a Playback stream with Alex Goldberg if he felt Chukwuemeka could benefit from Maresca’s arrival and said:
“Yeah, for sure, the pocket role in the eight role, Carney’s got a great build, he’s a great athlete, great player.
“I feel like if he does get the chance under Enzo he will flourish.
“Maybe I’m a bit bias because he’s one of my mates, but hope to see him have a good season in the next coming season.
“I’m sure if he gets the chance he’ll deliver on the pitch, I’ve got my fingers crossed for Carney.”
Chukwuemeka arrived at Chelsea from Aston Villa in 2022 for a reported fee of around £20m, but has struggled to make an impact in west London and missed a large part of last season through injury.
When he’s played the 20-year-old has impressed and fans will no doubt hope he can stay fit and see more of his obvious talent next season.
