Many Chelsea players were sad when it was announced that Enzo Maresca had left the club back in January.
The likes of Enzo Fernandez and Marc Cucurella have spoken out about Maresca’s exit and how it impacted the team.
However, one Chelsea star does not appear to be too disappointed with the midseason managerial change, which has benefitted him.
Who would you sign to replace Marc Cucurella?
He hasn't ruled out a Chelsea exit…
Marc Cucurella discussing his future
Jorrel Hato now ‘happier’ after being handed opportunity by Liam Rosenior
Journalist Simon Phillips has claimed on Si Phillips Talks Chelsea that Jorrel Hato is “happier” at Chelsea now following Maresca’s departure.
According to Phillips, Hato is pleased with the chances he is now getting under Liam Rosenior, with the defender not getting too many when Maresca was at the club.
Maresca preferred Marc Cucurella to Hato in the left-back position, which was understandable. Cucurella is one of the best left-backs in the Premier League.
Marc Cucurella and Jorrel Hato of Chelsea
Photo by Chris Lee – Chelsea FC/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Maresca recently spoke about Cucurella, expressing his love for the Spaniard. Whatever the case, Hato was clearly disappointed with his lack of opportunities under the former Chelsea boss.
Chelsea signed Hato from Ajax last summer in a £37m deal, which is a fee that the 20-year-old is now starting to justify.
Jorrel Hato’s stats under Liam Rosenior and Enzo Maresca
It is not a shock that Hato is much happier with life under Rosenior. The Dutchman has already featured in twice as many matches as he did under Maresca.
He has also scored twice after failing to find the back of the net at all during Maresca’s time at Stamford Bridge.
Jorrel Hato’s stats under Liam Rosenior and Enzo Maresca Appearances Minutes Goals Assists
Under Liam Rosenior 18 954 2 0
Under Enzo Maresca 9 619 0 1
Via Transfermarkt
Things could be about to get even better for Hato. Chelsea’s first-choice left-back Cucurella does not seem completely settled in west London.
Cucurella recently hinted at a return to Barcelona and has also slammed the club’s transfer policy. If he departs in the summer, Hato could be promoted to Chelsea’s starting XI.
After his recent performances, not too many Chelsea supporters would be against that if Cucurella does end up leaving.
Join Our Newsletter
Receive a digest of our best Chelsea content each week direct to your mailbox