Levi Colwill hails Maresca's 'light years' ahead of football thinking

In his first season at the helm of Chelsea, Maresca has already made a significant impact, with Colwill playing 25 matches this season as part of the club's push for Champions League qualification, currently sitting fifth in the Premier League table.

Colwill, speaking to the BBC, reflected on his experiences under various managers, including Graham Potter, Roberto de Zerbi, Mauricio Pochettino and Gareth Southgate, among others.

However, the 22-year-old highlighted Maresca's unique influence, saying: "He is pushing me to understand football in a different way. That's why I'm very blessed to play football under him and learn as much as possible."

In addition to his praise for Maresca, the centre-back also reflected on his long journey with the Blues, having been with the club since under-nine level. "They turn you into animals," Colwill said, referring to the club's commitment to developing future stars.

A particularly emotional moment for Colwill came in Chelsea's recent 4-0 win over Southampton, where he scored a goal against his hometown club. Reflecting on the significance of the goal, Colwill shared: "I don't think many people understand as a kid that's all I dreamed about – scoring against Southampton for Chelsea."