Leicester’s Kasey McAteer notes the Chelsea player who could thrive under Maresca

Leicester City’s Kasey McAteer believes a 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 deal 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.

Maresca will be under pressure from day one and will have to quickly convey his tactics and ideas to the players.

Chelsea bosses have been impressed by his possession-heavy style of football and will no doubt be expecting to see him implemented as quickly as possible.

During the Blues’ pre-season tour of America, it will become much clearer what roles each player will have in Maresca’s system and what he sees as his preferred starting line-up.

McAteer believes Chukwuemeka can thrive under Maresca.

A new manager is a new chance for every player to claim 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 thought Chukwuemeka could benefit from Maresca’s arrival and said:

“Yeah, definitely, the pocket role in the eight role, Carney’s got a great build, he’s a great athlete, a great player.

“I feel like if he gets the chance under Enzo, he’ll flourish.

“Maybe I’m a bit biased because he’s one of my teammates, but I hope to see him have a good season next season.

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“I’m sure if he gets a chance to deliver on the field, 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 much of last season through injury.

When he has played, the 20-year-old has impressed and fans will no doubt be hoping he can stay fit and see more of his obvious talent next season.