Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has praised the shift in Marc Guiu’s training standards after issuing him a blunt message. The coach revealed he was disappointed “in all the ways” with Guiu’s effort in training before the teenager responded impressively.
“I had a chat with Marc two weeks ago,” Maresca said. “I told him I didn’t like the way he was training and he needed to change. It changed and he got the chance.”
The 19-year-old striker showcased his progress by scoring in the Champions League against Ajax. Though yet to start in the Premier League this season, Guiu has already made an impact as a substitute against Liverpool and Nottingham Forest, with his movement creating key openings — including Estevao Willian’s late winner before the international break.
Guiu Pushing for Premier League Start
Maresca indicated that Guiu has earned the right to compete for a starting role after his response in training. “Absolutely, yes. He is ready to start,” he confirmed. The Spaniard’s involvement has allowed Joao Pedro to operate in a more advanced playmaking role, something the manager views as a tactical boost.
Guiu joined Chelsea in 2024 after the club activated his £5 million release clause at Barcelona. He has been prolific in European competitions, netting six goals in seven Conference League fixtures, but he has yet to open his domestic account.
Liam Delap Still Building Fitness
Meanwhile, striker Liam Delap has returned to training but is not yet fit for competitive action. His injury in August led Chelsea to bring Guiu back early from his loan at Sunderland after only three appearances. Sunderland’s upcoming trip to Stamford Bridge arrives too soon for Delap, though he may feature against Wolves in the EFL Cup next week.
Sunderland Move Still a Possibility in January
Sunderland manager Regis Le Bris acknowledged Guiu’s recall but expressed no bitterness. “We were able to say yes because we found another solution,” he said. Sunderland replaced him with Brian Brobbey, signing the striker from Ajax for £21.6 million on deadline day.
The striker’s future remains undecided. FIFA’s two-club rule restricts Guiu to playing only for Chelsea or returning to Sunderland in January.
When asked about a possible move, Maresca said: “Oh my god, we are in October. I don’t know. In football, things can change very quick for everyone, players and managers, so it is difficult to say.”
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