Chelsea may have their own Jack Grealish, Enzo Maresca can’t ignore him any longer
Enzo Maresca could have his very own superstar in the making as one of Chelsea’s youngsters continues to dazzle this season.
The Blues have an extremely young squad, showcased by 26-year-old Reece James, Cole Palmer, 23, Liam Delap leading the line, and Chelsea somehow keeping hold of Enzo Fernandez, 24.
Still, the team are fifth in the Premier League table and seventh in the Champions League, ahead of key matches against Everton, Newcastle United, and Aston Villa.
Maresca is clearly not afraid of trusting the younger generation, with Estevao playing a key role for Chelsea so far this season, and a lot of pressure being placed on Josh Acheampong‘s shoulders.
Jesse Derry is quickly making a name for himself at Chelsea
Injuries could certainly play a role in Maresca delving into the academy this term, with Delap suffering a fresh setback against Bournemouth, and one player he must focus on is Jesse Derry.
Signed from Crystal Palace‘s academy during the summer, the 18-year-old left-winger has left defenders in his dust, notching 10 goals and two assists across the Under-18s and Under-21s categories.
Much like Jack Grealish, Derry is capable of shifting onto either of his feet, making him a gigantic goal threat, and it is unlikely to take long before he is rewarded with a first-team debut.
As well as playing like the Man City loanee, the young star grew up watching him, and clearly has his inspirations for his style of play, which can only benefit the Blues in the future.
Enzo Maresca could look to youth for inspiration this season
Derry obviously has huge aspirations, swapping Selhurst Park for Stamford Bridge ahead of the 2025-26 campaign, given that competition is likely to be far more difficult at the latter.
With another two goals against Atalanta in the UEFA Youth League on Tuesday, 9 December, it is becoming clear just how much of a coup his signature was from the Eagles.
Multiple youngsters appear ready to break through, such as Shim Mheuka, but this winger is truly special and deserves the recognition from the first-team manager.
A call-up to the senior squad this season would certainly be reward enough for the 18-year-old talent, and supporters should be extremely excited about how high he can reach in the future.