Enzo Maresca has admitted Chelsea will need their supporters throughout the season as he prepares to take charge of his first game at Stamford Bridge.
The Blues take on Inter Milan in their final pre-season game on Sunday before they begin the season at home to Manchester City on August 18th.
Sunday will give Chelsea fans their first chance to see Maresca and the club’s new signings in action whilst they could get a first glimpse of Nicolas Jackson, Cole Palmer and Marc Cucurella who have yet to feature in pre-season so far.
Maresca sends message to the fans
Whilst Chelsea’s pre-season tour was disappointing from a results perspective with just one win from their five games the most important thing was there were signs of progress in terms of players understanding what’s being asked of them and a clear identity and style of play is already visible.
The game against Inter will present Maresca with a final opportunity before the season begins to fine tune his side and particular focus will be on the defence, where Chelsea have struggled, as they conceded 12 goals in their five games on tour.
Speaking ahead of his first game at Stamford Bridge Maresca admitted he was excited and also had a message for the fans.
“I’m very excited,” the Italian told Chelsea’s website.
“Finally, we are at home and with our fans and we need them throughout the season.
“They are going to be very important for us and the players because in these moments we need support. We are going to enjoy it together.
“I always try to build a good relationship with the supporters, especially because when we are at home they can be the twelfth player for us.
“We need them pushing and behind us. We will try to do our best to help them enjoy the game and share the joy.”
