One of Chelsea’s summer signings has actually yet to play a game in the Premier League since joining the club.
The deal to sign Joao Felix from Atletico Madrid seemed to come a bit out of nowhere, as Chelsea initially appeared to be more interested in signing another player from the Spanish side.
They were heavily linked with Samu Omorodion but ultimately turned down the chance to sign the striker, who is currently signing for Porto.
Felix really impressed in the Conference League last week. He looked like he had the edge over everyone else on the pitch as he found the back of the net twice.
Enzo Maresca wanted a central defender instead of Joao Felix
Maresca has claimed he has been impressed by the Portugal international since joining the club, although he may not have planned his season with the former Barcelona player in his squad.
According to The Sun, the coach was much more interested in signing another central defender instead of Felix in the summer.
Chelsea were reportedly previously uninterested in signing Felix and it looked like this was the best possible way to facilitate a move for Conor Gallagher.
Maresca has stuck with the same central defense partnership whenever she has been available in the Premier League this season.
Does Maresca have confidence in his central defenders at Chelsea?
He used Wesley Fofana and Levi Colwill whenever possible. However, it is unclear whether this is because he does not have enough confidence in the other options available.
One of those not starting is Benoit Badiashile, who has impressed recently after having a really difficult start to the season.
Maresca was spotted training closely with Badiashile this week, suggesting he has a good chance of starting for the Blues when they take part in the EFL Cup tie against Newcastle this evening.
Felix is another player who is likely to start. He has had to wait patiently for his chance behind Cole Palmer this season.
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