When team sheets for today’s game against Aston Villa dropped, and it was a surprise to see Noni Madueke not in the starting XI.
He’s been a Maresca favourite since the early games of this season, and despite immense competition in the attacking areas, didn’t look like losing his spot anytime soon. That’s despite having just 1 goals and 0 assists in the significant minutes he’s played since September.
So what is it that made the England star such a Maresca favourite despite a lack of productivity in terms of goal contributions?
The Athletic’s piece on the subject encapsulates it well. You can see the explanation in the video from EuroExpert embedded here:
I'm a big fan of Noni Madueke – and I'm pretty certain Enzo Maresca is too…
Here’s why I think Chelsea's RW is underrated, and that even on a bad day, he's a net positive for them tactically 👍🏻🔵 pic.twitter.com/KCWGLWUz1X
— Alex (@EuroExpert_) December 1, 2024
Noni Madueke complains about a ball not coming to him. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
Noni Madueke complains about a ball not coming to him. (Photo by Clive Mason/Getty Images)
Why Madueke is still an Enzo favourite
Firstly, as they point out, he can go inside or outside when taking a player on out wide.
“Yet [despite a lack of goal contributions] Maresca still plays him – because ultimately Madueke makes Chelsea a better team. Why? Firstly, he often draws multiple defenders out wide, creating space for his teammates like Cole Palmer. In fact, the pair have been the league’s most effective duo in terms of chances created for one another,” the video explains.
“Madueke is also a strong presser, and consistently tracks opposition runners – a standard Maresca demands other Chelsea players must meet. So while there’s still room to improve, it’s clear Maresca has complete faith.”
That’s all true. But today’s team shows Madueke needs to improve those numbers – no amount of pressing will keep you in the team forever unless you start making a more significant contribution in the box – but those of us watching every game can see just why the coach likes the former PSV player even when he’s not scoring or assisting.