"He Knew My Name!"—Josh Acheampong Reveals How Enzo Maresca’s Personal Touch Boosted His Chelsea Confidence

Josh Acheampong has opened up on the surprising moment he realised just how seriously Enzo Maresca takes getting to know his players — a gesture that left the Chelsea youngster “shocked” and inspired as he began his journey into the first team.

The 19-year-old defender was called up to join the Blues’ pre-season tour in the United States last summer, alongside fellow academy talent Tyrique George. But even before they boarded the plane, Maresca had already done his homework — and made sure every player knew it.

“I was like, ‘Hi, I’m Josh’… and he said, ‘I know who you are’”

Acheampong recalled the moment he met Maresca and was stunned that the new manager already knew his name.

“Yes. I remember the first day. I was like, ‘Hi, I’m Josh,’ and he was like, ‘I know who you are.’ So it was a bit of a shock, but it was good. He’s really positive. He gives me a lot of encouragement.”

The Italian manager had taken the extra step during his interview for the Chelsea job by preparing a detailed report on every player — including those from the academy. That attention to detail clearly made a big impression on the teenage defender.

“When I first joined up with the team, he told me what he wants from me, what I can improve on, what I do well,” Acheampong said. “It was a good experience, being in the States, playing in big stadiums. It was kind of like the start of the journey.”

Since taking charge at Stamford Bridge, Maresca has made it clear that he values building relationships with his players. He’s been vocal in his praise of Acheampong, even during moments when the young defender faced uncertainty — like during contract talks when he was briefly sidelined from first-team action.

Maresca publicly declared his admiration for the defender, saying he “loves” what Acheampong brings to the squad. That support didn’t go unnoticed.

“I got a bit of stick over it,” Acheampong admitted, referring to the contract standoff, “but it was really good to hear, to be fair. It gave me a lot of confidence.”

Eventually, Acheampong signed a new five-year deal in December and became a regular part of Maresca’s plans — proof that the manager’s personal touch had a lasting impact.

Acheampong has already featured in seven of Chelsea’s 12 Conference League games this season and is hoping to play in Wednesday’s final against Real Betis in Wroclaw. For him, the competition has been a big step in adjusting to senior football.

“It’s been a stepping stone into men’s football,” he said. “Hopefully we can go all the way.”

And no matter what happens next, the young defender is clearly motivated by a manager who took the time to know him — even before he introduced himself.