Leicester City’s manager, Enzo Maresca, acknowledges the increasing responsibility placed on the team’s wingers, Stephy Mavididi and Abdul Fatawu, as their opponents focus on shutting down Harry Winks and Ricardo Pereira. The pair’s performances were hindered in recent matches as the opposition aimed to limit their impact in the center of the pitch. Consequently, Maresca emphasizes the need for the wingers to exploit the wide areas and create chaos, which they successfully demonstrated against Swansea. Mavididi troubled his full-back, while Fatawu scored his first goal for the club.
Maresca explains that the opponents deliberately targeted Winks and Pereira, forcing the team to adapt and find space on the wings. Recognizing the importance of their role, Maresca expects the wingers to take risks, even if they lose some one-on-one battles, as their impact in the other instances can pose significant problems for the opposition.
During the international break, Maresca worked closely with the wingers, focusing on refining specific aspects of their game, including their control of the ball. From the touchline, Maresca observed their implementation of the advice he provided.
When asked about the wingers’ response to the guidance they received, Maresca praised Mavididi’s performance, particularly in the first half, where he closely monitored the winger’s progress from his position on the bench. Maresca also expressed his satisfaction with Fatawu’s contribution, highlighting the significance of maintaining a consistently high level of play.
Overall, Maresca emphasizes the importance of the wingers’ performances in stretching the play and creating opportunities for the team. Their ability to exploit the wide areas effectively will be crucial to Leicester City’s success.
