Enzo Maresca Drops Major Garnacho Clue as Chelsea Boss Declares Star 'Ready to Start' Before Man Utd Showdown
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has stated he wouldn't hesitate to give Alejandro Garnacho his debut start for the Blues against Manchester United this Saturday, though he acknowledged wanting to discuss the situation with the former United player to gauge his mental preparation.
Garnacho experienced a turbulent conclusion to his time at United, clashing with boss Ruben Amorim and finding himself sidelined before completing a £40 million ($54 million) move to Stamford Bridge during the summer transfer window.
The winger has made two substitute appearances since arriving and is now vying for his maiden start, possibly as soon as Saturday's return to Old Trafford, though Maresca acknowledged that deploying him against his previous club requires careful consideration.
"It's certainly something we need to consider," he explained to reporters. "Primarily because of his age - you can't predict how he might respond to the situation.
"However, if we do choose to start him, I'll have a conversation with him to understand his feelings about facing his former team."
Garnacho has faced criticism from some Chelsea supporters after losing concentration defensively during Brentford's late leveller in the previous match, but Maresca reminded fans that such adjustments are typical for new arrivals.
"We've mentioned this repeatedly - players require time to settle in," Maresca elaborated. "When Brentford scored their second goal, just two or three minutes earlier we faced the identical throw-in situation and the same scoring opportunity, with the player covering Garnacho's position also left unmarked.
"So this scenario occurred twice, not just once. It's part of the adaptation process when a player joins a different club, learning our various tactical approaches.
"In his last two appearances off the bench, he performed excellently. We're pleased with how he's adjusting to our playing philosophy and our expectations for the wide position. I believe he's prepared to make his first start."