Enzo Maresca fires subtle dig at Erik ten Hag after Jadon Sancho's Chelsea debut (original) (raw)

Jadon Sancho got his Chelsea career off to the best possible start after teeing up Christopher Nkunku’s winner vs Bournemouth and the Blues boss has now spoken out on his display

Enzo Maresca

Enzo Maresca believes “love” will get Jadon Sancho back to his best after finally ending his Manchester United nightmare.

The England winger joined Chelsea on deadline day on loan with an obligation to buy next summer. And he got his Stamford Bridge career off to the best possible start after assisting Christopher Nkunku for his winning goal against Bournemouth.

It signals a dramatic turnaround for Sancho, who is back playing Premier League football after a rotten spell at Man United. He had a very public falling out with Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag before being exiled to former club Borussia Dortmund.

But there have been no such problems between him and Maresca, who believes that support and an arm around the shoulder will get the best out of the winger. Speaking about Sancho’s performance, the Chelsea boss said: “Very happy, very happy for him. He was very good, I think Joao [Felix] was very good and Christoph scored but was also very good.

“I said already when we brought in Jadon that the reason why is because we were looking for another winger like Noni [Madueke]. Noni is doing that on the right side, winning one v one, creating chances, scoring goals and we were looking for the same on our left side with Jadon.

“We already have Mischa [Mudryk] there, Pedro is playing there but it's good to have both wingers they can give us this kind of options.”

Asked about how crucial a positive relationship with fans and staff could be for Sancho, Marsca added: “It's very important. I have a feeling that Jadon is a guy that needs love.

“This is what I think when I spoke with him before he join us. Also I know he has the desire to show the player he is, but for me, it is just to enjoy football. This is the reason why they play. They are happy and want to play football, they want to enjoy football and then because they are good, they are going to do good things.”

Jadon Sancho celebrates with Christopher Nkunku (

Image:

Getty Images)

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While Maresca gave his thoughts on Sancho’s outing, the winger also had plenty to say. He was full of praise for his new club for the welcome he has been given following his tumultuous time as a Man United player.

"First of all it is amazing to make my debut for Chelsea," Sancho said to Sky Sports. "Just being back playing I'm very grateful. The team played very well and we are happy with the three points.

"I've been working hard for this moment and I'm just happy that I got my chance. I had a great end to last season being in the Champions League final. I'm just happy to make my debut for Chelsea. I have to thank all the staff and my team-mates. The first day I came in, they made me feel welcome and I'm so happy to feel this comfortable."

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