Cole Palmer was on the periphery when he won a Premier League medal in 2022-23, with 12 of his 14 appearances for Manchester City this season coming from the bench.
However, since arriving at the club in September 2023, he has been a key player for Chelsea, with his form earning him a place in the England squad and now keeping the Blues within touching distance of the top spot in the table.
Arguably the player of the season so far, only Mohamed Salah and Erling Haaland have more Premier League goals than the attacking midfielder this season, while he has also provided the fifth-most assists in the league.
Centre-forward Nicolas Jackson also recorded a solid return of eight goals in 14 appearances, with his goals per 90 minutes rate improving significantly from 0.35 in 2023-24 to 0.65 in the current campaign.
His shot accuracy has increased from 65% to 75%, with Palmer’s proximity and a wide supply line from the likes of Noni Madueke, Neto and Jadon Sancho helping the Senegal international.
But there are also signs that the Blues’ expensively assembled midfield is currently thriving.
Chelsea have been largely a source of ridicule due to their massive spending of around £1.5 billion on young stars from around the world on long-term contracts.
However, this strategy seems to be paying off.
Argentine international Enzo Fernandez has lived up to his British records, while Romeo Lavia and Caicedo form an effective tandem.
Unlike several other potential contenders, Maresca also has the luxury of fielding virtually a different XI depending on the competition his team is playing in, and he was able to utilize his squad’s full potential.
Speaking to TNT Sports, former Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole said: “He looks great. Maresca is the manager of the season so far, considering what he has had to contend with in terms of the squad.
“Since September last year, we have been dealing with an upward curve, flawless in Europe.
“The midfield dominates most games. I still feel there is still a lot to do, but come January they will be four points behind Liverpool, I think they are in the title race and now they are closer to that goal.”
Former England and Tottenham striker Peter Crouch added: “Maresca has been fantastic so far with the way he has gotten rid of players he didn’t want.
“It was uncontrollable, but he created a harmonious atmosphere. Everyone wants to play for the jersey.”
