Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca revealed he is urging Enzo Fernandez to make more attacking runs into the opposition penalty area to increase his goal-scoring impact.
The Argentine midfielder played a pivotal role in Chelsea’s 2-0 victory over Leicester City in challenging conditions, providing the assist for Nicolas Jackson’s 15th-minute opener and securing the win with a late goal in the second half.
Fernandez, who has faced competition for a starting spot this season from Moises Caicedo and Romeo Lavia, delivered a man-of-the-match performance to strengthen his case for regular inclusion. His goal marked his first in 16 appearances this season and his eighth overall for the club.
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After the game, Maresca explained his effort to refine Fernandez’s role and push him further up the pitch.
“Today, I thought it was the right game to use Enzo, even though he returned late from international duty. He did very well,” Maresca said. “I’m trying to convince Enzo, as I did last year with Ndidi and Kiernan, that attacking midfielders need to arrive in the box. He scored today because he was inside the box. If he was outside, he wouldn’t have scored.”
Fernandez’s goal came from close range, capitalizing on a rebound after Jackson’s initial attempt was saved. Maresca added, “We’re happy with how Enzo is performing and adapting to this role.”
The victory also highlighted another strong showing from Jackson, who now has 10 goal contributions in 12 Premier League matches this season—seven goals and three assists. Maresca praised the Senegalese forward’s versatility and effort.
“For me, he’s doing very well,” Maresca remarked. “He works hard both on and off the ball. Sometimes he drops deeper like a midfielder; other times, he makes runs in behind, depending on the game plan. We’re very happy with Nico’s pressing and overall play. He’s improving game by game.”
With Fernandez and Jackson stepping up, Chelsea’s attack continues to show promise under Maresca’s guidance.