Football

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has implored captain Reece James to assume a more prominent leadership role within the team. James, who recently returned from injury, has been urged to demonstrate greater influence both on and off the pitch.Maresca emphasized the importance of James' leadership qualities, stating, "I expect from him more in terms of leadership inside the changing room. He's on the way, he's doing well, he's progressing, but I expect more."The Italian manager believes that James, as captain, has a responsibility to set an example and inspire his teammates. "For me, because you are the captain, you have to give more. You have to give more than the rest," Maresca explained.James' leadership role has been limited due to his injury absence and the presence of Conor Gallagher as captain for much of last season. However, Maresca is seeking to develop leaders from within the squad and has had positive discussions with James about his expectations."He's understanding that we're expecting more from him," Maresca said. "He's our guy from the academy. It's one of the reasons why he has to show more in terms of personality."Maresca acknowledged that James is a reserved individual but believes that he can develop the necessary leadership qualities. "When you don't have a proper leader, you need to build that. I think we don't have a proper leader. We need to build them. Reece is one who is on the way but he's not there. He needs to make an effort."James is expected to feature against Newcastle in the Premier League on Sunday, and Maresca will be looking for him to demonstrate the leadership qualities he has been demanding.

Erling Haaland's 91st goal for Manchester City marked his 100th appearance for the club, propelling the defending champions to a 2-0 victory over Chelsea in their Premier League opener. The Norwegian striker's clinical finish in the 18th minute gave City the early advantage, while Mateo Kovacic's strike in the 84th sealed the win.Chelsea, under new manager Enzo Maresca, showed promise early on but struggled to find the back of the net. Nicolas Jackson's goal was ruled out for offside, and he later missed a close-range volley. Despite heavy summer spending, Chelsea's lack of a clinical center-forward was evident.However, there were positive signs for Maresca. Romeo Lavia impressed in midfield alongside Moises Caicedo, while Pedro Neto made a lively debut off the bench. Neto nearly scored with his first touch, but it was Kovacic who doubled City's lead with a well-taken shot.In the early game, Brentford secured a 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace. The Bees took the lead through Yoane Wissa in the 18th minute, but Palace equalized through Eberechi Eze in the 64th. Bryan Mbeumo's goal in the 84th minute proved to be the winner for Brentford.

Manchester City to Kick Off Premier League Title Defense at ChelseaThe Premier League has released its fixture list for the upcoming season, with defending champions Manchester City set to begin their title defense away to Chelsea on August 18. The match will mark a reunion between Pep Guardiola and his former assistant Enzo Maresca, who was recently appointed Chelsea boss.FA Cup winners Manchester United will host the opening game of the campaign when Fulham visit Old Trafford on August 16. Newly promoted Ipswich, back in the Premier League for the first time in 22 years, will welcome Liverpool's new manager Arne Slot on August 17.Leicester, back in the top flight after one season in the Championship, will host Tottenham on August 19. Brighton's new manager Fabian Hurzeler will begin his reign away to Everton, while West Ham's new boss Julen Lopetegui will welcome Aston Villa.Mikel Arteta's Arsenal, who finished as runners-up behind City for a second straight season, will host Wolves.Other notable fixtures include:* Liverpool vs. Manchester United (August 26)* Manchester City vs. Arsenal (September 16)* Chelsea vs. Manchester United (October 22)* Arsenal vs. Manchester City (April 29)The Premier League season will conclude on May 28, 2024.

Chelsea has appointed Enzo Maresca, the former Leicester City manager, as their new manager on a five-year contract. Maresca replaces Mauricio Pochettino, who left the club by mutual consent last month.Maresca, 44, joined Leicester in June 2023 and led them to the Championship title last season. He is known for his attacking style of play and his ability to develop young players.Chelsea's ownership group expressed their excitement about Maresca's appointment. "He is a highly gifted coach and leader that we are confident can help fulfill our vision and competitive goals for the club," they said.Maresca's arrival at Chelsea marks a new era for the club. The Italian manager is expected to bring a fresh approach and a renewed sense of optimism to Stamford Bridge.Maresca's first task will be to prepare Chelsea for the upcoming season. The Blues will be looking to challenge for the Premier League title and make a deep run in the Champions League.Maresca has a proven track record of success at Leicester. He led the Foxes to the Championship title in his first season in charge and also guided them to the FA Cup semi-finals.Chelsea fans will be hoping that Maresca can replicate his success at Stamford Bridge. The Italian manager has a reputation for playing attractive football and getting the best out of his players.

Chelsea have appointed Enzo Maresca as their new head coach, according to British media reports. The Italian joins the Blues on a five-year contract, with an option for a further year. This move is designed to provide stability after two years of upheaval under the new regime led by US investors Behdad Eghbali and Todd Boehly.Maresca, 44, was Pep Guardiola's assistant at Manchester City before taking over as Leicester's manager last year. He guided the Foxes to an immediate return to the Premier League after their relegation 12 months ago. His style of football, which emphasizes possession and attacking play, is said to have impressed Chelsea chiefs.Chelsea were in search of a new manager after parting ways with Mauricio Pochettino. The Argentine spent just one season at Stamford Bridge, with Brentford's Thomas Frank and Kieran McKenna also linked with the vacancy.Pochettino's departure came after Chelsea finished sixth in the Premier League, qualifying for the Europa Conference League but missing out on Champions League qualification and a trophy. They lost the League Cup final to Liverpool and the FA Cup semi-final to Manchester City.However, there were signs of progress under Pochettino, particularly during a run of five consecutive wins to end the campaign. This ensured Chelsea's participation in European competition next season.Maresca's appointment is seen as a long-term investment by Chelsea. The club hopes that he can build on the foundations laid by Pochettino and establish a consistent winning culture at Stamford Bridge.