"He was not shy. He had personality" - Enzo Maresca praises Chelsea star for performance in loss to Servette
Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca had praise for teenage star Tyrique George following his debut for the club in their UEFA Europa Conference League match. The youngster featured as the Blues fell to a 2-1 defeat against the Swiss side away from home on Thursday, August 29.
Over the years, Chelsea's academy has continued to produce top-quality talents, many of whom make it at the club or elsewhere. Italian tactician Maresca named both Tyrique George and Josh Acheampong, two of the finest players in the academy, in his pre-season tour squad. Both featured, but Acheampong already made his professional debut in the 2023-24 season, and George made his against Servette.
Enzo Maresca was asked about the 18-year-old forward after the game, and the former Leicester City manager lauded the teenager. He praised him for showing personality in the encounter, despite coming on in a hostile away ground and with the game tied. He said via Metro:
"He was good! He was not shy. He had personality. We also had Josh Acheampong on the bench."
George was introduced off the bench after 62 minutes, replacing the weekend's hat-trick hero Noni Madueke on the left wing. The youngster showed some impressive touches and deft skills, catching the eye despite his side surrendering a second goal after his introduction.
Chelsea rate George very highly, as is evidenced by the fact that he was handed a new contract this summer, valid until 2027. Still only 18, the youngster is expected to have more chances to impress under Maresca, who has shown himself to trust the winger.
The Blues already have a number of talented teenagers on their books with Marc Guiu and Acheampong also included. The number will swell next summer when Estevao Willian and Kendry Paez join the club from Brazil and Ecuador, respectively.
Chelsea closing in on signing of wantaway Manchester United star - Reports
Chelsea are close to finding an agreement for the signing of Manchester United forward Jadon Sancho, according to Fabrizio Romano. The Blues have emerged as a viable option for the English winger, who is keen to leave the Red Devils this summer.
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag left Sancho out of the squad for both of his side's Premier League games to start the 2024-25 season. The forward spent the second half of the 2023-24 season playing regularly on loan at Borussia Dortmund. He is now not looking to spend time on the sidelines and is pining for an exit.
Juventus and Chelsea were interested in the 24-year-old, but he seems to be keen on remaining in England. The Blues have submitted an offer to take Sancho on an initial loan, and negotiations are taking place between both clubs.