Enzo Maresca says Chelsea have a £60m jewel who makes others around him 'better'

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has highlighted the unique qualities of Marc Cucurella, who took time to settle after his £60 million move from Brighton a couple of seasons ago. Last season, there were claims he could be sold, with Manchester United reportedly interested in filling the void created by injuries to Malacia and Luke Shaw.

However, towards the end of the season, Cucurella turned things around, forcing his way back into Mauricio Pochettino’s team and having a brilliant Euros, where he helped his country win the tournament.

When asked about the Spanish full-back, Maresca told Londonworld: "Marc is very important. He has something that you sometimes struggle to find in players. He’s good, and he’s also making the players around him better because he’s always talking, always demanding. When you have five, six, or seven players like Marc, always talking and improving others, it’s something important. I’m very happy with Marc."

Good energy around the Chelsea squad

The last few weeks have been very positive for Chelsea. They beat Bournemouth against the odds, thrashed West Ham, and repeated the trick against League One side Barrow.

Now, they face Brighton, which presents an opportunity to win their first home league game of the season. Maresca, who is slowly winning over his doubters, emphasized the importance of home wins, saying:"I have told the boys they need to prove themselves tomorrow if they want to retain their positions, as the substitute players are pushing hard for a spot. Tomorrow's game is at home, and we need to change the narrative by establishing a strong home record."

After five games, Chelsea have won three, lost one to Manchester City, and drawn against Crystal Palace.