Enzo Maresca reveals Chelsea youngster he ‘fell in love with’ after dominant Legia Warsaw win

Enzo Maresca was full of praise for Chelsea's academy talent after a commanding 3-0 win over Legia Warsaw in the UEFA Conference League — but it was Josh Acheampong, not goal-scorer Tyrique George, who stole the manager’s heart. The Chelsea boss made bold changes to his starting XI, handing senior debuts to two teenage prospects in a high-stakes quarter-final first leg — and both delivered.

George scores, but Acheampong wins Maresca’s admiration
Tyrique George, 19, opened his Chelsea account with his first senior goal, making an immediate impact on the left wing before being moved centrally in the second half. It was a proud moment for the youngster and for the Chelsea academy that developed him. “I am happy, first of all, for the Chelsea academy,” said Maresca. “He [George] is one of our boys. He was quite good in the first half, taking responsibility.” But it was Josh Acheampong, the 18-year-old right-back, who Maresca couldn’t stop raving about. “The one I fell in love with tonight is Josh Acheampong,” he said. “He can be a fantastic player for this club.”

“He wants to learn. That’s the best part.”
Acheampong, who was deployed at right-back in Maresca’s 4-1-4-1 system, impressed not just with his defensive performance but with his adaptability and mindset. “He can be good in different positions. The best thing for Josh is that he’s open — he wants to learn,” Maresca added. “‘Full-back? No problem. What do I have to do?’ That’s his attitude — and that’s what makes him special.” With Chelsea’s youth system continuing to produce standout talent, Maresca’s willingness to trust young players may be one of the most exciting developments of the season.

Maresca defends struggling Christopher Nkunku
While the night belonged to the youngsters, Christopher Nkunku had a more frustrating evening. The French forward, who also started against Brentford in last weekend’s 0-0 Premier League draw, missed a second-half penalty and was largely quiet throughout the match. Still, Maresca backed the 26-year-old to find his form. “At the moment, it’s a lack of confidence — probably because he’s missing goals,” Maresca said. “But the only way to deal with that is to work hard. “The good thing about Christopher is that he’s working well every day. When you do that, the reward will come.”

With a comfortable 3-0 lead going into the second leg, Chelsea are in a strong position to reach the UEFA Conference League semi-finals. And with rising stars like George and Acheampong now part of the first-team picture, the future looks increasingly bright at Stamford Bridge.