There’s a feeling from some people within Stamford Bridge that one Chelsea player won’t suit the style of football associated with incoming manager Enzo Maresca.
Following the exit of Mauricio Pochettino this summer by mutual consent, Chelsea appointed another new head coach.
Enzo Maresca, 44, has joined the Blues on a five-year deal fresh off winning the championship title with Leicester City.
The Italian coach implemented a possession-based style of football at the King Power Stadium, so will he bring some things similar at the Bridge?
Concerns about Chelsea player
According to The Guardian, there’s a feeling from insiders at Chelsea that Conor Gallagher may not fit the style of play that Maresca will bring to the club next season.
The future of Gallagher, 24, is already one of the big talking points this summer as he enters the final year of his contract.
The Guardian’s report explains that Gallagher could still stay at the club despite interest from rivals Aston Villa and Tottenham. They claim that Chelsea will listen to £50m offers for Gallagher in the summer window, but the player himself will not be pressured into his next move and may even see out the final year of his deal.
Could Conor Gallagher play under Enzo Maresca?
Leicester usually lined up in a 4-3-3 formation last season, so could Gallagher operate in that system?
A year ago many supporters at Chelsea doubted Gallagher’s ability and future. If you fast forward to now, fans are desperate for the central midfielder to stay at the club.
His game has developed a serious amount in the last season, which is why we’d be confident backing him to thrive in a Maresca side.
Chelsea teammates such as Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo may be more suited to a possession-based game, but don’t underestimate Gallagher’s ability with the ball at his feet as well. The England international is far more than just a roadrunner.