Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has stressed that he sees Enzo Fernandez as an attacking midfielder, despite criticism that the player is not always deployed in his preferred position.
Before joining Chelsea, Fernandez primarily played as a central controller, often recording high volumes of touches and influencing play from deeper areas.
However, both Maresca and former coach Mauricio Pochettino have used him in more advanced attacking positions, a shift that has undeniably increased his goals and assists.
Still, critics have argued that the midfielder has not always been deployed properly in the middle of the park.
Speaking ahead of Chelsea’s game against Brentford, Maresca hinted that he still sees Fernandez in an attacking role and reflected on the player’s evolution at the club:
“When you arrive here from another country, you need to adapt. Also, I think Enzo is a good player. He struggled at the beginning of last season about what we wanted from him, but the moment he realised, he was a much better player. I see Enzo as an attacking midfielder. Hopefully he can continue in the same way.”
The Argentinian, who is currently the vice-captain of the club, has already netted two goals in three games this season while also providing an assist.
He was involved in the goals against West Ham and scored and assisted against Fulham, although his performances were somewhat questionable in both matches.
Enzo will be hoping to improve on last season, where he scored six goals and recorded seven assists in the Premier League, as Chelsea secured a top-four finish.
