“Two artists” – Enzo Maresca explains his plan for Cole Palmer and Estevao Willian

Enzo Maresca spoke to Sky Sports ahead of this afternoon’s game between Chelsea and Brighton in the wake of the loss of Cole Palmer for weeks, potentially months.

Maresca explains his team building philosophy

Estevao Willian and Liam Delap celebrate. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images) generic

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The Chelsea coach explained that his philosophy was basically to build a really strong defensive team and then have a couple of “artists” in the side with more license to take risks and create.

“Inside the orchestra you need one or two artists – they make the music better with the small details,” Maresca explained.

“I like my team with everyone working in one direction – and then you need a Cole Palmer, an Estevao or a player who in a moment can decide games.”

We would argue that he could do more to empower these creative players at times – Mauricio Pochettino certainly was getting more out of Palmer in terms of productivity the season before last.

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You can see the Chelsea coach speaking in the clip embedded here:

Vast pressure on Estevao – but he looks ready for it

Today we have no Palmer, so it’s Estevao’s turn to step up. It’s a shame, as we have been really excited to see the pair of them build some chemistry, but perhaps having just Estavao out there will mean he has even more license to focus on attacking and creating rather than pressing and defending.

This is a huge moment in the 18 year old’s career – our season until Palmer is back is really hinging on the attacker and his ability to score and create. It’s a lo of pressure for someone so young and new to the league – but he looks like he’s good enough to step up and seize this chance.

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We can’t wait for kick off.