Ahead of the Conference League final, Enzo Maresca has shared a glimpse into his shared history with a key opponent on the Real Betis team.
Enzo Maresca has commented on his past playing days with one current Real Betis star at Malaga.
The Chelsea head coach spoke to the media a week early before the Blues’ Conference League final on May 28.
Maresca’s men will take on the LaLiga side next week, aiming to secure success to complete their sweep of European titles, having won the Champions League, Europa League, Cup Winners’ Cup and UEFA Super Cup at various periods in their history.
)
11:41 - 21.05.2025
I am not happy - Maresca not pleased with PL disadvantage for Conference League final
Enzo Maresca has delivered a blunt assessment of one Chelsea situation, which he believes compromises the Blues' chances in next week's Conference League final.
Maresca on Isco at Malaga
)
After speaking about his bond with Betis boss Manuel Pellegrini, the Italian manager then recollected the time he and Isco played together at Malaga.
Maresca joined the Spanish side in January 2011 and was part of the group that finished fourth in the 2011-12 season before departing.
)
Isco joined the Andalusian club in July 2011 and was a key component until his June 2013 departure for Real Madrid.
The current Chelsea boss reminisced about that Malaga team, which comprised Ruud van Nistelrooy, Isco, Joaquin and Santi Cazorla.
)
“Yeah, he is a top player, it is crystal clear,” said Maresca of Isco. “His career speaks for itself. He spent many years with Real Madrid, we played together when Isco was very young.
“He joined us from Valencia and we had a top team. The striker was Ruud van Nistelrooy, we had Isco, Joaquin, Santi Cazorla…and me! That was a top team.”
What’s next for Chelsea?
Chelsea travel to Nottingham Forest on the final day of the Premier League, bidding to secure their top-five place.
They then take on Real Betis in the Conference League final and begin preparations for the Club World Cup, which starts on June 14.
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)
)