In the aftermath of a hectic few days at Chelsea, Pedro Neto has done an interview where he discusses the surprise exit and the current state of the dressing room.
The Portuguese winger is in the midst of the best season of his career, already matching his best ever goal tally just halfway through the Premier League season.
Neto has developed into a proficient wide attacker under Maresca, and will be hoping he can continue on that trajectory under a new manager.
Similarly to how Marc Cucurella reacted to Maresca leaving, Neto has come out with words of support for his old coach and given us some more insight into the mood of the squad after Thursday’s bombshell news.
Pedro Neto’s reassuring Chelsea dressing room reveal
Even with the occasional clash between Maresca and the club’s hierarchy, no one was expecting the New Year’s Day announcement that the Italian would be heading for the exit.
Speaking to Sky Sports, Neto discussed the mood at the club, and his answer suggests that the players are staying united during a tough period, still focused on maximising the season.
He says: “It’s always fun. It’s always fun because like I say, I have 25 and most of them they are younger than me. It’s funny and the environment is unbelievable because it’s a young group with a young mentality as well, but a mentality of winning and this is what made the difference last year and I hope that makes the difference this year as well because we always want to win.
“I think we are missing a little bit maybe of consistency because like I said, as a young group, some guys never had the experience of playing Champions League and Premier League at the same time. So it’s been challenging to be honest but a good challenge.”
It’s important that this feeling is kept when a new face is at the helm. Chelsea showed last year that a late-season surge in performances can turn an underwhelming campaign into a chance at silverware.
The Blues are still in Europe and competing in both cup competitions. Maresca’s departure may feel like a reset, but it’s important that the team don’t lose more momentum.
Liam Rosenior set to be announced as Enzo Maresca replacement ⌛
Enzo Maresca at Chelsea:
91 games
55 wins
16 draws
20 losses
Is this a step backwards, or another exciting young manager who will hit the ground running at Chelsea?
Neto’s parting words to Enzo Maresca
Neto makes it clear that the squad are still united, but it doesn’t mean he’s not sad about Maresca leaving.
Asked about the decision, Neto remarks: “In the beginning, I was a little bit surprised because the manager did a very good for us. He did an unbelievable season last year. He was doing a good season this year. Of course, we wanted to do better and all we always want to do better. But uh this is football, you know.
“For me, I would be a little bit sad because it was the manager who helped me a lot in these years. He managed myself, helped me a lot. I learned a lot with him. As for personal terms, he was unbelievable as well. So the only thing I can say is thank you.”
The issues that led to his exit had little to do with the squad of players he presided over. Maresca clashed with the Chelsea hierarchy, but he and his players developed a special bond from winning together.
Chelsea fans plan protest after Enzo Maresca exit 😬
How do you feel about BlueCo after this week's news?
Whoever the next manager is, they will need to have that same ability to foster good relationships with these young stars and inspire the same belief in the squad as their predecessor.
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox
