In the world of football, relationships between managers and players can often be the key to success. For Enzo Maresca, his time at Leicester City was defined by the special bond he forged with his squad – a bond that culminated in a touching surprise after the club clinched promotion back to the Premier League last season.
A Night to Remember
As Maresca watched Leeds United’s defeat at QPR in late April, which confirmed Leicester’s return to the top flight, little did he know that his night was about to take an unexpected turn. The Italian manager recounts the moment with fondness:
“The first face I saw was Hamza [Choudhury]. They didn’t knock at the door, they were in the garden and then at my window. When I drew the curtains, it was his face there. We had many good moments and this was maybe not the most important one. But it was the one which showed me how good the connection was between the players and staff.”
– Enzo Maresca
The impromptu celebration at Maresca’s house spoke volumes about the close-knit group he had cultivated at Leicester. In an era where player power often dominates headlines, this display of genuine affection and respect for a manager is a rarity.
Vardy: England’s Greatest?
Maresca’s admiration for his Leicester players extends beyond just their personal qualities. When asked about star striker Jamie Vardy, the Chelsea boss made a bold claim:
“England has been quite lucky with strikers, like Harry Kane, Wayne Rooney and many others but if you ask me, Jamie has been the best one. People don’t realise how good he is.”
– Enzo Maresca
High praise indeed for a player who has defied expectations throughout his career, rising from non-league obscurity to become a Premier League champion and England international. Maresca’s assertion is sure to spark debate among fans, but it’s a testament to the impact Vardy had under his management.
Dewsbury-Hall: A Patient Pursuit of Success
Another Leicester player who caught Maresca’s eye was Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, the attacking midfielder who followed his manager to Chelsea in a £30m deal this summer. Despite limited opportunities so far, Maresca believes Dewsbury-Hall’s time will come:
“The problem with Kiernan is that people just see him if he’s playing or not. But people don’t see the way he is helping us in terms of process… Kiernan was the most important player at Leicester; he moved to Chelsea to be one other player. You have to accept that… But for sure he has to fight and continue to work, to wait for the chance and take it.”
– Enzo Maresca
It’s clear that Maresca values Dewsbury-Hall’s contributions both on and off the pitch, and sees him as an integral part of Chelsea’s future plans. The midfielder’s patience and work ethic are qualities that will serve him well as he looks to establish himself at Stamford Bridge.
A Warm Welcome Awaits
As Maresca prepares to return to the King Power Stadium with his new club, he is unsure of the reception he’ll receive from the Leicester faithful. However, one thing is certain – the Italian will be full of gratitude for his time at the Foxes:
“I will be thankful to the club, the players and the fans because it was a fantastic season. I met people that are very difficult to find in football – the owner, his family … they are fantastic human beings. They care for the players, the staff, all of the people who work inside the club.”
– Enzo Maresca
Regardless of the result on Saturday, Maresca’s bond with Leicester is one that will endure. The relationships he built, the moments he shared, and the success he achieved will forever be etched in his memory. As he looks to build something similar at Chelsea, the blueprint from his time at Leicester will undoubtedly serve as inspiration.
In a game often dominated by money, ego, and short-term thinking, Enzo Maresca’s story serves as a heartening reminder of the power of human connection in football. The surprise celebration at his house, the praise for Jamie Vardy, the faith in Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall – these are all testament to a manager who values the personal as much as the professional. As he embarks on his Chelsea adventure, one suspects Maresca will be aiming to create more of these special moments – both on and off the pitch.
