'He's perfect' - Enzo Maresca Issues Verdict on Teenager Reggie Walsh After Stunning Debut

'He's perfect' - Enzo Maresca Issues Verdict on Teenager Reggie Walsh After Stunning Debut

Abigael Wafula 08:00 - 02.05.2025

Enzo Maresca was full of praise for 16-year-old Reggie Walsh after a standout debut performance, while urging Chelsea to remain focused.

Enzo Maresca is in awe of Reggie Walsh’s performance on his senior debut for Chelsea in their match against Djurgarden in the second leg of the Europa League semifinal.

Chelsea put up a good fight, securing a 4-1 win, and for Enzo Maresca, Reggie Walsh stood out as one of the great players of the match.

The Italian tactician took the leap of faith and gave the 16-year-old a chance to play in the crucial match.

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Maresca was impressed with how the game turned out, revealing that he always wanted to see how Reggie Walsh would handle himself in such an environment.

Enzo Maresca's reaction to Reggie Walsh

Enzo Maresca
Enzo Maresca

The 45-year-old revealed that Reggie Walsh might be young, but he already understands Chelsea’s playing style, making him one of the best.

He added that Reggie Walsh is easy to handle, unlike other youngsters who might want to be followed around.

“I’ve been excited for a long time to give him his debut chance because he’s so good. He’s very young, but in the way we want to play, our style, he’s perfect,” Enzo Maresca told Sky Sports.

“We gave eight debuts this second from the academy, it’s good. I said just enjoy the moment, be happy, play in the way he is training with us every day. He makes everything easy.”

Enzo Maresca warns Chelsea against complacency

Enzo Maresca Chelsea
Enzo Maresca Enzo Maresca

Following their dominant win over Djurgarden, Enzo Maresca also warned Chelsea not to rest on their laurels. With the win, they have one foot in the Conference League final.

Nicolas Jackson scored a brace in the second half, with Jadon Sancho and Noni Madueke also scoring.

“The performance for one hour, 70 minutes was good, then we dropped a little bit in the last 20 minutes because we were at 4-0, but it showed us we cannot allow ourselves to drop,” Enzo Maresca said.

“Against Warsaw, away we won 3-0, but then at home we struggled, so it’s a good experience. For sure the next leg at home we’re going to finish our job. We have the experience of Warsaw, we can learn from that.”

While Enzo Maresca was thrilled with Reggie Walsh’s impressive debut, he emphasised the importance of staying focused, warning Chelsea not to become complacent as they edge closer to the Conference League final.