BREAKING NEWS: If not for Him yesterday,we could have beaten Arsenal even with that Red card,I wish I have His quality in my team,I could have been the one topping the league by now”, Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca reveals the ONE Arsenal player that really impressed Him yesterday – Not Declan Rice and not Merino
In a tightly contested London derby that ended in a 1-1 draw, Chelsea’s head coach Enzo Maresca took a moment to acknowledge the outstanding contributions of Arsenal’s Mikel Merino. The Spanish midfielder delivered an impressive performance that not only impressed the spectators but also left a mark on Maresca, who has had his share of battles in the Premier League.
From the outset, Merino exhibited his characteristic blend of tenacity and finesse, dominating the midfield and stirring creativity that was vital for Arsenal. His ability to dictate the tempo of the game was evident as he seamlessly transitioned from defense to attack, making critical passes that continually tested Chelsea’s backline. The midfielder orchestrated Arsenal’s offensive movements and was at the heart of several key plays, showcasing an impressive range of passing that kept Chelsea on their toes.
Speaking after the match, Maresca said, “Mikel Merino was exceptional today. He affects the game in so many ways—whether it’s with his press in midfield, his ability to win back possession, or his creativity in the final third. It’s no surprise that he was a pivotal player for them today.” Merino’s vision and intelligence on the ball allowed him to find space and create opportunities, earning praise even from the opposition bench.
The match itself was filled with drama and excitement, with Chelsea striking first through a well-placed header from their center-back. However, it was Merino’s determination and drive that culminated in a classic Arsenal equalizer. His persistent pressure in Chelsea’s half resulted in a crucial turnover, allowing the Gunners to counterattack swiftly. A cleverly threaded pass found its way to the feet of Arsenal’s forward, who leveled the score with a clinical finish that sent the away supporters into a frenzy.
Maresca noted the significance of the goal, stating, “That’s what top players do. They change the course of a match, and Mikel demonstrated that today. His ability to recover the ball and initiate an immediate attack is something every coach dreams of having in their team.” The Chelsea coach lauded Merino’s work ethic and tactical intelligence, suggesting that these attributes are what set him apart in the league.
Maresca’s admiration for Merino continued as he highlighted the player’s leadership qualities on the pitch. “Mikel exudes confidence. He’s a player who, despite his age, takes responsibility and leads by example. Even when Arsenal was under pressure, he remained calm, organized, and focused, ensuring his teammates stayed composed,” he remarked. This composure allowed Arsenal to regain control as the match unfolded, and it’s a quality that Maresca believes will serve Merino well in his career.
As Chelsea looks to build on their progress this season, Maresca’s recognition of Merino serves as a reminder of the high standards and fierce competition within the Premier League. The Gunners may have left Stamford Bridge with a valuable point, but it was the performance of their midfield maestro that captured headlines and respect from rivals.
As both teams head into the next leg of their respective campaigns, the spotlight may well be on Mikel Merino, whose performance has undoubtedly cemented his reputation as one of the key figures for Arsenal this season. Enzo Maresca, watching from the sidelines, knows that talents like Merino are what make football the thrilling spectacle that it is, one that keeps fans on the edge of their seats.
