Enzo Maresca’s Leicester City Reign Begins with Pre-Season Friendly
Enzo Maresca’s tenure as the Leicester City manager kicked off with a pre-season friendly against Peterborough United. Despite the driving rain, Maresca’s new squad showcased their skills and readiness for the upcoming season. With the disappointment of relegation still fresh in their minds, the players displayed no signs of psychological hangovers.
Maresca’s Tactics and Squad Changes
Maresca wasted no time in implementing his own style and tactics. One notable change was the use of Ricardo Pereira in the inverted full-back role. This was a plan initially introduced by former manager Brendan Rodgers, but Pereira’s injury prevented its full implementation last season. Maresca continued with this strategy, utilizing Pereira in central midfield whenever Leicester had possession.
Another significant change was the addition of two new players to the squad – Harry Winks and Conor Coady. Winks, a £10 million signing from Tottenham Hotspur, took on the role of midfield anchor in front of a back four consisting of Pereira, Jannik Vestergaard, Coady, and Victor Kristiansen. Flanking Winks were Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Dennis Praet, while Jamie Vardy led the attack with Patson Daka and Wanya Marcal-Madivadua on either side.
Maresca’s Style of Play
Maresca’s presence on the touchline was calm and composed, occasionally offering instructions to his players. It was evident that he wanted his team to press high up the pitch, as he instructed them not to let Peterborough out of their own half during throw-ins. The midfield duo of Dewsbury-Hall and Praet pressed high just behind Vardy, emphasizing Maresca’s desire for an aggressive playing style.
Second Half Changes
In the second half, Maresca made wholesale changes to the team. Wilfred Ndidi took on the role of midfield anchor, supported by Hamza Choudhury and Boubakary Soumare. The defense consisted of James Justin, Harry Souttar, Ben Nelson, and Timothy Castagne. Notably, Justin played as a wing-back, pushing high and wide, while the rest of the back four formed a back three. Choudhury provided cover for Justin, and Soumare played in a more advanced position than he had previously for Leicester.
Looking Ahead
Maresca’s squad is still a work in progress, as evident from the lack of fluidity and penetration during the friendly match. However, it is clear that Maresca has a vision for his team and is actively working towards implementing it. He is keen to add a few more players to the squad before their upcoming matches against Tottenham and Liverpool during their trip to Asia.
Departures and Potential Signings
While Maresca aims to strengthen his squad, there may also be departures from Leicester City. Harvey Barnes has attracted interest from clubs like Newcastle United, but a deal seems unlikely at the moment. Additionally, other clubs have shown interest in Timothy Castagne.
Academy graduate Liam Moore, who watched his former team play, is currently without a club. He has been invited to train with Leicester City’s under-23s to maintain his fitness until his next opportunity arises.
Conclusion
Enzo Maresca’s reign as Leicester City manager has begun with a pre-season friendly that showcased his tactical approach and squad changes. While there is still work to be done, Maresca’s vision for the team is evident. With further additions to the squad and potential departures, Leicester City is gearing up for an exciting season ahead.