Pressure of large transfer fees can be ‘big problem’ for players – Enzo Maresca

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca fears the added pressure which accompanies large transfer fees can be a “big problem” for players.

The Blues enjoyed another summer of big spending as they brought in the likes of Pedro Neto, Joao Felix and Jadon Sancho to strengthen their squad.

Since the Todd Boehly-led Clearlake consortium took over the club in 2022, they have broken the Premier League transfer record twice on Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo.

Maresca believes large fees can weigh heavily on players.

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Speaking generally, he said: “The price does not have to be a problem for them, it’s something that the players can do nothing about.

“Sometimes players feel under pressure because the club pay too much, but this is a big problem and is a weight on the shoulders which does not help the players.”

Marc Cucurella joined Chelsea for a reported £62million in 2022.

The versatile Spaniard, who initially struggled to adjust to life in west London, has witnessed a resurgence under Maresca, who lauded his ability to learn.

“I think Marc is a very intelligent player, he’s very clever,” Maresca said.

“Against Bournemouth he played as an attacking midfielder and West Ham as a holding midfielder and a full-back without the ball. He’s versatile and can give us different options.

“Since day one, I don’t want the players to do things without them understanding why they do that, so I don’t ask them just to run, I think it’s nice to help the players know why they do things.

“Marc is one of the guys who, once we explain the reasons why, he immediately understands.”

Saturday’s Premier League clash with Brighton will be a chance for Cucurella, Caicedo, Robert Sanchez and Levi Colwill to face their former club.

Both Cucurella and Caicedo were booed during the Blues’ 2-1 victory over Brighton at the Amex Stadium in May.

Asked about the reaction his players will get on Saturday from the travelling fans, Maresca said: “The Brighton fans are not happy, but the Brighton owners probably are happy.

“The reason why Chelsea paid money for them is because they did fantastic at Brighton. Moises, Robert and Marc, even Levi who was there on loan, they’re all fantastic players and I’m happy to have them.”