Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has heaped praise on midfielder Moises Caicedo following the Blues’ gritty 1-0 win over Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge, calling the Ecuadorian “one of the best, if not the best” defensive midfielder in the world.
“So Humble, So Good” – Maresca Glows Over Caicedo’s Performance in Chelsea Win
The hard-fought victory, sealed by Enzo Fernandez’s first-half strike, marked a significant moment in Chelsea’s push for a Champions League spot.
While Fernandez grabbed the headlines with the goal, it was Caicedo’s commanding presence in midfield that left the biggest impression on his manager.
“Moi Caicedo is so humble, so kind… so good,” Maresca said after the match.
“He’s one of the best, if not the best, defensive midfielder in the world right now. The best thing about Moi is that every day he’s working very seriously. He’s an example.”
Caicedo, who joined Chelsea in a British-record £115 million move from Brighton in the summer of 2023, has become a cornerstone of Maresca’s system.
Since the Italian took charge, the 22-year-old has steadily grown in influence, showing composure, tactical intelligence, and relentless energy in every outing.
Against Spurs, Caicedo not only anchored the midfield but nearly stole the spotlight with a stunning volley, only for the goal to be ruled out due to an offside in the build-up.
He also won a crucial foul just before a disallowed Spurs goal — a moment that left Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou visibly frustrated.
The numbers speak for themselves. Caicedo has played every single one of Chelsea’s 30 Premier League games this season, averaging 2.9 tackles and 1.4 interceptions per game.
His 88 tackles rank third in the league, behind only Crystal Palace’s Daniel Muñoz and Everton’s Idrissa Gueye.
Despite a modest return of one goal and two assists, Caicedo’s impact goes far beyond stats. His tireless work allows Chelsea’s attacking players the freedom to create, and his consistency has been key to the Blues’ recent surge.
With the win over Spurs, Chelsea climbed back into the top four, and Maresca’s side looks more united and determined than ever.
As the season enters its decisive phase, Caicedo’s leadership and grit could make all the difference.
