Enzo Maresca reflects on Chelsea’s draw Against Wrexham
Chelsea Enzo Maresca talks about his teams performance against Wrexham Credit: Andrew Dempsey (ETPhotos)
In their opening match of the USA Tour, Chelsea drew 2-2 with Wrexham at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara. Head coach Enzo Maresca shared his thoughts on the game and the team’s performance.
Speaking to the club's official website, Maresca expressed satisfaction with the team’s performance, noting the progress made despite having only started pre-season training two weeks ago.
"Very good – it was the first game for us. To be honest, very happy because we just started two weeks ago. The team was doing, in some moments, the things we are working on since day one," he said.
Maresca acknowledged the team’s rhythm was not yet perfect due to the early stage of the season but praised their execution.
"It's normal that, at this moment of the season, the rhythm is not perfect. But in terms of concept and idea, the team was very good," he added.
Highlighting individual performances, Maresca commended Reece James and Malo Gusto. "I think Reece was very good. Him and also Malo in the second half, both tried. It was not an easy game with 10, 11 players behind the ball, so finding space and solutions was never easy," he commented.
Emphasising the importance of gaining match fitness, Maresca noted, "This is the most important thing. Now we have five games in two weeks. Today was the first one, so very happy for the players and the performance. We saw some of the things we have been working on since day one."
When asked about the young players, Tyrique George and Josh Acheampong, Maresca praised their contributions. "Tyrique did well, and Josh always does well. It's important for both of them to get minutes, so in general, happy for them," he remarked.
Looking ahead, Maresca is optimistic about Chelsea’s continued improvement.
"Yes, we see some of the things we are trying in training. But at this moment, the most important thing is to get minutes and improve physical condition. With five games in two weeks, it is getting better," he explained.
Regarding the remainder of the tour, Maresca believes Chelsea’s style will become more apparent.
"For sure, but today, as I said, I was quite happy because we just started two weeks ago. It's unbelievable, so very happy with the performance, but it's a shame about the two goals. At this moment, it is important to see different things," he concluded.
Chelsea will continue their pre-season as they take on Celtic at Notre Dame Stadium on Saturday.
