Chelsea opened their preseason tour with a 2-2 draw against Wrexham, marking the beginning of Enzo Maresca’s tenure in charge. While many Blues fans may feel disappointed by an anticlimactic start, there were still notably positive performances from some key players.
Most Promising Performances From Chelsea’s Underwhelming Draw With Wrexham
Romeo Lavia – Most Promising Performance for Chelsea Vs Wrexham
Despite only playing one half of football, Romeo Lavia has already amassed more minutes in a Chelsea shirt than he managed all last season. Ironically, the 20-year-old showed no signs of rust from his injury woes.
Lavia started in his preferred defensive-midfield role with a very encouraging display, providing confident control in possession and defensive security off the ball. His chemistry in Maresca’s system was apparent from the off, due to their time together in Manchester City’s development squad.
Read More: Chelsea Have ‘Reached an Agreement’ With ‘Top-Performing’ Player for Long-Term Contract
As a result, he effectively organised his midfield and orchestrated build-up play in spite of his lacklustre Chelsea experience. Competition in Chelsea’s midfield for minutes will be challenging, but more performances like this can cement Lavia’s place in the starting 11.
Marc Guiu
Chelsea’s new 18-year-old striker seized the opportunity to lead the line in the absence of Nicolas Jackson. Guiu caught the eye with bullish pressing and relentless movement, constantly making runs in behind or dropping deep to provide an outlet in attack. The Spaniard also showed flashes of encouraging hold-up play which emphasises his well-rounded attacking profile.
Read More: Fabrizio Romano: ‘Chelsea Are Ready to Sell’ – Three Premier League Clubs Make Contact
While Guiu didn’t have the chance to showcase his finishing ability against Wrexham, he was able to display numerous other promising attributes that are needed in a quality striker. Considering the club’s need for striker depth, he has the potential to remain with the first team if he continues putting up similar performances.
Tyrique George
Academy graduate Tyrique George was given a surprise start by Maresca and did not disappoint. George was electric and direct on the ball as he constantly threatened Wrexham in one-on-one scenarios. Most of Chelsea’s attacks in the first half went down his left-hand side, and the Blues’ first goal of the game even came from a rebound off his long-range effort.
Read More: Chelsea ‘Make Approach’ For ‘Star’ To Fill Key Position In Starting Lineup
Although there’s still notable room for improvement from his end product, George’s mazy dribbling and incisive link-up play proved to be a bright spark in the first half. Reports of Chelsea wanting a right-footed left-winger could be quelled if George continues to perform strongly in preseason.
Christopher Nkunku
Christopher Nkunku had a quiet start to the game before scoring the first goal of the Maresca era. In typical Nkunku fashion, the Frenchman found himself in the box at the perfect time to finish a loose ball. Being able to rely on him throughout the season would greatly benefit the club’s chances of returning to the Champions League.
Read More: Club Director Issues Hands Off Warning for Chelsea, Liverpool & Arsenal Target
Angelo Gabriel
For a second straight preseason, Angelo Gabriel surprised supporters with an auspicious display against Wrexham in the second half. The young Brazilian winger once again showcased his incisive link-up play and creative crossing ability. Angelo faces stern competition for minutes behind Noni Madueke and Chelsea Player of the Season Cole Palmer on the right-wing, but continued strong performances could provide quality depth for cup competitions.
