Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca did not hold back after Noni Madueke’s performance in Chelsea’s 5-1 victory over Southampton.
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Despite the winger getting on the scoresheet, Maresca expressed concerns about his training attitude and consistency.
“With Noni, I have a personal relationship. He can do much more. When he starts scoring or assisting, he drops a little,” Maresca said.
The Chelsea boss revealed that Madueke’s training standards led to his omission from the lineup against Aston Villa, emphasizing the need for daily improvement and ambition.
Demanding Consistency and Ambition
Maresca was clear in his expectations:
“If he scores one, he has to go for the second, the third. He has to be ambitious, aiming for more assists and goals. He’s doing great, but he has to work harder because he can be much, much better.”
Madueke, signed from PSV Eindhoven for £29m in January 2023, has shown flashes of brilliance this season with five goals and two assists in 13 Premier League appearances.
Yet, Maresca highlighted his need to maintain focus beyond moments of success.
Chelsea’s Development Under Maresca
While Chelsea continue to impress under Maresca’s leadership, the coach’s criticism of Madueke underscores the high standards he sets for his players.
The team remains well-positioned in the Premier League, with competition for places pushing players like Madueke to elevate their game.
Madueke will need to prove he can meet these demands as Chelsea aim to maintain their strong form this season.