“He is improving” - Chelsea coach Enzo Maresca lavishes praises on 23-year-old star following standout display against Panathinaikos 

Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has praised Mykhailo Mudryk for his excellent display against Panathinaikos in the Conference League yesterday (October 24).

The Blues traveled to Athens to face the Greek Outfit in their second fixture of the campaign, having won 4-2 against Gent in the first. The west Londoners secured a comfortable 4-1 victory over Panathinaikos, courtesy of goals from Christopher Nkunku, Mudryk, and a brace from Joao Felix.

Mudryk has failed to establish himself in Chelsea's starting XI since his £88.5 million move from Shakhtar Donetsk in January 2023. The Ukrainian's big-money signing has been heavily criticized as he's struggled to impress with his performances.

However, he put on an exciting display against Panathinaikos, grabbing a goal and two assists. He set up Joao Felix's opener in the 22nd minute before scoring his own a few minutes into the second half. Mudryk then assisted Felix's second in the 55th minute.

Mudryk's display has earned Maresca's plaudits, who was elated by the 23-year-old's goal involvement in Greece. Speaking to reporters after the match, the Italian manager said (as quoted by Fabrizio Romano on X):

“I’m very happy to see Mudryk there, in that position and scoring that goal”.

Maresca added on Mudryk's recent improvement:

“Mykhailo’s learning process is more slow compared to the other wingers but he is improving”.

Mudryk has made 67 appearances for the Blues since his arrival last year, contributing eight goals and nine assists.

Enzo Maresca heaps praise on 'versatile' Chelsea star after Panathinaikos win

Enzo Maresca spoke very highly of another Chelsea star as well after the Panathinaikos win. The Italian boss was full of praise for Renato Veiga, hailing his versatility.

The 21-year-old defender, who's predominantly been used as a left-back this season, was deployed as a left centre-back against Panathinaikos. He has also shown adeptness in the middle of the park, having played as a midfielder in his career.

Speaking about Veiga after the game, Maresca said (via The Mirror):

“Renato, I just said to him inside the changing room, he has played as a centre-back, full-back, holding midfielder, attacking midfielder.”

Maresca then heaped praise on the entire Chelsea squad, highlighting the players' flexibility with their positions. The former Leicester City manager added:

“I said the reason why I love Chelsea is because many players can be versatile. It is better for the team and for the players. Today, if you just play one position, I don't think it's enough: you need to learn to play more positions.”

The Blues will next face Newcastle United in the Premier League at Stamford Bridge on Sunday (October 27).