Chelsea boss praises Real Betis star’s pedigree as mind games begin before showdown in Athens!
Enzo Maresca has heaped praise on Isco, labeling him a “top player” as Chelsea prepare to face Real Betis in the UEFA Conference League final. Maresca, who once shared a dressing room with Isco at Málaga, acknowledged the Spaniard’s elite pedigree from his Real Madrid days and his renaissance in Seville.
Maresca’s quotes:
> “Isco is a top player. His career speaks for itself. We played together when he was very young. That team had Van Nistelrooy, Joaquin, Cazorla, me… a top team.”
Despite the glowing praise, some Chelsea fans see it as classic pre-match psychology. One wrote: “I think he’s just hyping them with the intention to bring them down…. Basic mind game.” Others dismissed the threat, asserting Chelsea’s obligation to win with or without Isco’s presence.
Chelsea will need to be wary of Isco’s resurgence, as the midfielder has rediscovered form and flair at Betis. Maresca insists he will prepare “exactly as always,” but the respect he shows suggests Betis’ playmaker is a central concern.
