Enzo Maresca has his work cut out at Chelsea this season, that is for sure. First of all, the Blues won the Club World Cup in the summer, so that immediately raised expectations around what this squad is capable of, perhaps to some unrealistic levels. Secondly, the Blues are dealing with injury problems to key players as well.
Cole Palmer and Liam Delap have picked up early-season injuries. On the other hand, Levi Colwill suffered a pre-season ACL injury that could keep him out for the entirety of the campaign. Those are some big names that are missing.
On top of that, Chelsea allowed Nicolas Jackson to leave on deadline day, further reducing their options up front. But on the other hand, they did bring back Marc Guiu from his loan spell at Sunderland.
When thinking of Jackson replacements, not many Chelsea fans would have thought about the idea of bringing back Guiu. But it looks like he is someone who Maresca rates highly if reports in the media are on the mark.
Enzo Maresca impressed by forgotten Chelsea player in training
As reported by The Athletic, Chelsea had to act fast to find cover for Delap after his injury and Guiu was the unanimous choice among the decision makers at Stamford Bridge, including Maresca. The Italian manager appreciates the intensity, hunger and passion that the Spanish striker puts into training sessions and games.
Guiu did score six goals in Europe for Chelsea last season. And the former Barcelona man is expected to improve as he gains more experience in the Premier League.
That could very well come moving forward. Delap is not expected to be back on the pitch before six to eight weeks, although suggestions have been that it could be longer than that. Guiu is the only real cover option for Pedro right now, so expect him to get plenty of minutes here and there over the next couple of months as a substitute in league and European games and as a starter in domestic cup competitions.