Enzo Maresca hails Chelsea youngsters after Ajax thrashing
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has said he was "very proud" of his young players after the Blues demolished Ajax 5-1 in the Champions League at Stamford Bridge on Wednesday night.
Enzo Maresca backs Chelsea teen Estevao for future Ballon d'Or glory
The 18-year-old Brazilian joined Chelsea from Palmeiras this summer for 29 million pounds after breaking Neymar's record for the most goal involvements in Brazil's Serie A before turning 18. Fittingly, his final Palmeiras match came against Chelsea in the Club World Cup - where he scored before Maresca's side went on to win the tournament.
Since his arrival, Estevao has become an instant favourite at Stamford Bridge, catching attention with a late Premier League winner against Liverpool and becoming the Blues' youngest Champions League scorer in a 5–1 victory over Ajax. He's also made an impression for Brazil, scoring on debut against Chile and twice more versus South Korea.
Maresca admits the teenager's adaptation has exceeded expectations.
"He surprised us a lot by how easily he settled," he told ESPN Brasil. "He's very young, but his family supports him and he's had help from Joao Pedro and Andrey Santos. He's happy, he wants to play football - even if he still thinks it's cold here!"
The Italian coach is confident Estevao's potential has no ceiling. "I have no doubt he can fight for the Ballon d'Or or The Best award," Maresca said. "He just needs to focus on improving. If he keeps learning and working, the awards will come by themselves."
Sandro Tonali signs contract extension with Newcastle until 2029
Newcastle midfielder Sandro Tonali has signed a contract extension that will keep him at the club until 2029, with an option to extend the deal by a further year.
New Nottingham Forest manager Sean Dyche vows to rebuild players' confidence
Sean Dyche says restoring belief and reconnecting with fans are his top priorities as he begins his reign at Nottingham Forest.
Enzo Maresca opts for 'hands-off approach' to tackle Chelsea's red card issues
Chelsea have grappled with a disciplinary headache lately, collecting five red cards across their past six outings in all competitions, a tally that includes head coach Enzo Maresca's own dismissal.