Enzo Maresca apologises to fans after Liverpool loss. (Photo by Alex Dodd/CameraSport)
Enzo Maresca apologises to fans after Liverpool loss. (Photo by Alex Dodd/CameraSport)

“Some managers you look at” – Alan Pardew makes interesting Enzo Maresca claim

Former Premier League manager Alan Pardew has been impressed by Enzo Maresca and believes the Italian looks “comfortable” at Chelsea.

Maresca was appointed as Mauricio Pochettino’s successor in the summer having guided Leciester City to the Championship title last season.

It’s a big step up for the 44-year-old who lacks experience at the top level, but that hasn’t seemed to be an issue with the Blues currently sitting third, just a point behind Manchester City in second.

Pardew impressed by Maresca

Chelsea have certainly taken a gamble with this appointment but Maresca admitted he had no doubts about taking the job despite the obvious step up.

Maresca has impressed with his honesty in press conferences, whilst on the pitch Chelsea already have a clear identity and style of play, although there’s plenty of room for improvement.

The Blues have lost just two games this season and have impressed going forward with the club currently the third highest scorers in the division.

Levi Colwill celebrates with Enzo Maresca. (Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC)
Maresca has made a very good start to life at Chelsea. (Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC)

Maresca himself admitted Chelsea are ahead of his expectations at this point in time and it’s hard to imagine any fans would have predicted the Blues be third in November.

Pardew, who is no stranger to the dugout himself has been impressed by Maresca and believes he looks comfortable at Chelsea.

“Chelsea do look like they’ve got all sort of tools,” he told talkSPORT.

“The manager looks comfortable. Some managers you look at and they look like they’re straining in the job a little bit, he’s definitely not straining. He’s relaxed and his team’s playing well. Yeah, they’re in good shape, Chelsea.”

Pardew has a point, but it’s also a lot easier to look relaxed when things are going well and he certainly wouldn’t be saying the same if Chelsea had got off to a poor start.

Maresca faces two more games this week with a chance to secure qualification to the knockout stages of the Conference League against Heidenheim on Thursday, before a huge game against fellow Champions League contenders Aston Villa on Sunday.

Tags Alan Pardew Enzo Maresca
Chelsea News