Enzo Maresca will face off against Jose Mourinho during this week’s Champions League action, and he may want to ask the former Chelsea boss a thing or two.
Two major trophies in his debut season is evidence of Enzo Maresca’s ability as a coach.
You would be forgiven to think that last season’s triumphs give him some breathing room in terms of performance, but that isn’t the Chelsea way.
It’s all about what this side can win next.
Some have suggested that Chelsea aren’t eyeing the Premier League title just yet, but that’s a tough sell to fans who expect nothing but the best from their club. The start to the season suggests this isn’t the year, but that won’t fly for much longer.
If Maresca wants to retain favour, he will have to start working towards a title charge, and The Special One might be able to give him some tips.
Jose Mourinho achieved what Enzo Maresca dreams of
Jose Mourinho gained legend status at Porto when he won the 2004 Champions League.
It would be a perfect parting gift for the club where he made his name, joining Chelsea that summer with the aim of bringing the club back to the top of English football.
He would do exactly that on his first try, winning the Premier League back-to-back. The interesting part is that the squad in 04/05 was the youngest to ever do so, helped by emerging stars like John Terry (24), Petr Cech (23), Joe Cole (23) and Arjen Robben (21).
That’s the ‘impossible’ challenge facing Maresca.
Last season’s side was the youngest to ever finish in the top five, and they could beat Mourinho’s record if they can get it done in the next two seasons.
But that’s a big if.
Maresca has a tougher task
Maresca has credit in the bank with many supporters, who understand that he isn’t getting everything he wants from the ownership.
BlueCo have come under criticism for their apparent refusal to invest unless it’s a player they see as a valuable trading asset.
The 04/05 side had experienced stars like Frank Lampard, Didier Drogba and Fabio Carvalho, all in their prime. The older players in this Chelsea side are the ones not even involved with the squad.
Captain Reece James is the most experienced head at the club, and he’s only 25.
If you look at this Chelsea squad and their summer business, you’ll see a top-heavy approach that prioritises young, exciting attackers while the defence is left bare.
In order for Maresca to break Mourinho’s record next season, there would need to be some strong additions at the back and in goal, and sales of the older non-contributors to keep the age down. This campaign, it’s a pipe dream.
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