Sancho talks about ‘first talk’ with Enzo Maresca that inspired return to form

Jadon Sancho says everyone at Chelsea is buying into Enzo Maresca’s methods as the Blues continue to impress under the Italian.

The English winger, on loan from Manchester United, has scored in his last two games for the west Londoners, who currently occupy second place in the Premier League.

Sancho appears to be returning to the player who saw him rise to prominence at Borussia Dortmund after a torrid period following his move to United in 2021.

And the 24-year-old said he immediately bought into Maresca’s philosophy after sealing his loan deal in August.

In an interview with sky sportsSancho said: “He is a very good coach and understands the players, but he is very hard on you if you don’t do the right thing. I feel that all the players are convinced of the way they work and are eager to learn.

“In my first conversation with him I had a good feeling, a good impression, so I wanted to play with him.

“It was like when I walked into the room and felt his aura, his presence, especially when he talks to you because he has played and has a lot of experience. He can teach all the guys something, so I feel like it was good.”

🗣️ “We haven’t done anything yet”

Jadon Sancho says there is a long way to go and Chelsea are not thinking too much about their league position 🔵 pic.twitter.com/PXQA8JfT3d

– Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) December 11, 2024

Sancho has had to wait patiently for his chance in west London, with the Blues boasting great quality in attack, with the trickster battling the likes of Pedro Neto, Noni Madueke, Cole Palmer and Joao Felix for a starting spot.

But he has seized the opportunity in recent weeks, scoring off the bench against Southampton before scoring early on in the 4-3 win over rivals Tottenham.

“I’ve been practicing my shot,” Sancho said. “I like to give glory to my friends in front of the camera, so I try to help them as much as I can, but in training they have seen that I have a good shot and I know I can shoot.

“I’ve been practicing that and I’m happy to have scored the goal against Tottenham.

“I am focused game by game and I hope I can maintain this momentum. I am very happy, working hard for the team and the main objective is to get the three points every week.