Chelsea beat Benfica 1-0 in the Champions League, and Enzo Maresca did have some kind words to say for young winger Alejandro Garnacho.
The equalizer followed a fortunate ride. Pedro Neto had played a cross, Garnacho had made his way inside, and the cross had been deflected off Benfica’s Richard Ríos into his own goal. Not technically an assist, but the run had been from Garnacho’s.
Enzo Maresca was questioned about Alejandro Garnacho:
He said, “Not only on the ball, defensively he was very good, the manner in which he pressed. In the third he has licence to go one-versus-one when he wants. To get into the box is important because it’s there we create goals.”
Short answer: Maresca enjoyed two things in specific:
1. Defensive effort & pressing – Garnacho assisted in tracking, harrying, and winning the ball.
2. Freedom in behind – He was allowed space to come in behind defenders, into the box, and coordinate the attacking third.
Alejandro Garnacho
Alejandro Garnacho‘s surprise transfer from Manchester United to Chelsea has sent the headlines buzzing, catapulting the young winger to new heights. With his fearless dribbling, scorching speed, and goal-scoring nature, Garnacho lives for direct runs and finesse. At Chelsea, he will be sure to inject raw energy, creativity, and a shot of adrenaline that creates a buzz every time he has his hands on the ball.
Garnacho’s Situation
Garnacho is yet to establish himself in the Chelsea squad. By this time, he had played a couple of times but was not yet a usual first-choice player.
He played for about 61 minutes before being substituted during this match.
He made some attempts at tackling, recovering, and won duels—performing both in attack and defense.
Maresca also admitted that the entire team could have been made better, particularly in the second half, and that some players were less than their full fitness.
But he made it clear that a victory at times is necessary even if it is “ugly.”
Author’s Insight
In the end, Chelsea took the three points. Garnacho‘s effort was one of the few bright spots. Maresca’s praise suggests that the club feels there is actual talent in him, particularly if he can find a balance between his defensive and offensive tendencies.
