Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has outlined the club’s strategy to ease 19-year-old defender Aaron Anselmino into the Premier League after his recall from a loan spell at Boca Juniors. Signed for £17 million last summer, Anselmino was immediately loaned back to the Argentine side, but with their season now concluded, the youngster is set to join the Blues in London.
A Focus on Adaptation and Integration
Speaking to Chelsea’s official website, Maresca emphasised the importance of giving Anselmino time to adjust not only to the demands of English football but also to life in a new country.
“He’s another talent, another good player. Now the most important thing is that he arrives here, adapts himself, finds a house, and settles in the right way. Then we need to give him time because when you come from the other part of the world, you need to adapt. You need to see a new world, a new culture.”
Maresca acknowledged the challenges of transitioning from Argentine football to the Premier League, noting the significant differences in culture, playing style, and competition level. He stressed that Chelsea will provide the support Anselmino needs to settle in and adapt to his new surroundings.
The Plan for Anselmino
For now, the plan is for Anselmino to stay with the first team and train under Maresca’s guidance. While the coaching staff sees potential in the young defender, the Italian manager cautioned that patience will be key:
“If he’s here it’s because we think he is a good player, and he can help us, but for sure he is very young, and he is coming from Argentina, with a completely different culture, different football, different level, so he needs time to adapt.”
Not Ready for First Match of 2024
Chelsea will face Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Saturday, marking their first match of the New Year. However, Anselmino will not be available for selection as he continues to transition to his new environment.
A Long-Term Investment
Chelsea’s recall of Anselmino signals their belief in his potential to contribute to the squad in the future. With the club’s focus on developing young talent, Anselmino’s progression will be closely watched as he begins this new chapter in his career. For now, the priority remains helping the defender acclimatise and prepare for the challenges of Premier League football.