Enzo Maresca is using Chelsea star’s loyalty to the detriment of the team
Enzo Maresca’s biggest flaws were laid bare as Chelsea suffered defeat at the hands of Bayern Munich in the Champions League.
Harry Kane scored a brace for Bayern as the former Tottenham man broke David Beckham‘s record of being involved in the most Champions League goals of any Englishman.
Cole Palmer grabbed one back for Chelsea, but after Trevoh Chalobah‘s own goal opened the scoring on Wednesday, 17 September, the German giants went into cruise mode against the Premier League side.
Matters could have been very different for the Blues, as it was believed that Jonathan Tah deserved to be sent off during the clash. Still, Maresca’s side never appeared comfortable at the Allianz Arena.
Reece James experiment failed yet again vs Bayern Munich
One of the biggest frustrations was seeing Reece James placed alongside Moises Caicedo in the centre of midfield, with Malo Gusto forcing the natural right-back out of position.
In 68 minutes, he created zero chances, misplaced 67 per cent of his long balls, was dispossessed once, was dribbled past, and even lost two more ground duels before being hooked [FotMob].
Previously, the 25-year-old has spoken about his desire to do anything for the team, even if that means playing anywhere across the pitch, and Maresca appears to be taking that far too literally.
The manager attempted a similar experiment last season with James, and once he reverted the player back to his normal position, the Blues went on a winning streak.
His most memorable contribution came during the 1-0 win over Man United back in May, contributing an incredible assist for Marc Cucurella, which turned out to be the match-winner for the Blues.
Malo Gusto vs James – who should start at right-back?
Maresca has so many options in the centre of midfield, whether that be Enzo Fernandez, Andrey Santos, or even the returning Romeo Lavia. In any situation, James should not be in centre midfield.
James was incredible for England over the international break, and with his stats in the Premier League so far this season, it is obvious that Gusto needs to prepare for a spot on the bench for much of this season.
In fewer minutes, the England international has created three more chances, registered a 100 per cent shot accuracy, and made more tackles, blocks, and clearances per 90 minutes [FotMob].
He has incredible abilities at both ends of the pitch. That is undeniable. Why Maresca continues to use him out of position baffles supporters after a frustrating defeat to Bayern.