Chelsea winger Noni Madueke may be smiling on the pitch, but behind the scenes, things aren’t quite as smooth.
Noni Madueke ‘doesn’t enjoy’ left-wing role under Enzo Maresca
Despite having an impressive season under Enzo Maresca, reports suggest Madueke is not entirely happy with his recent role in the team.
According to journalist Simon Phillips, sources close to the club say that Madueke “much prefers to play on the right and doesn’t really enjoy it on the left,” where Maresca has been deploying him in recent matches.
Madueke, who joined Chelsea in a £29 million move, has been one of the Blues’ brightest sparks this campaign.
The 23-year-old has scored 11 goals in 37 appearances across all competitions and was instrumental in Chelsea’s recent 3-1 victory over Premier League champions Liverpool.
His performance was so standout that after the game, Madueke was spotted watching his own highlights on the big screen at Stamford Bridge — a moment that reflected both his confidence and his contribution on the night.
While Maresca has shuffled his squad — using captain Reece James in midfield and Moises Caicedo at right-back — most players have kept quiet about their positional switches.
But it seems Madueke, despite his good form, is privately frustrated about operating on the left flank.
Thursday’s upcoming Conference League semi-final second leg against Swedish side Djurgarden will once again shine the spotlight on Madueke.
Djurgarden’s Keita Kosugi has already hailed the England international as “one of the best wingers in England,” a reputation Madueke will want to strengthen — no matter where he plays.
If his unhappiness continues, though, a summer move could be on the cards.
Newcastle United and Aston Villa have both been linked with the former PSV star, and with both clubs currently competing at Chelsea’s level — or higher, in Newcastle’s case — Madueke would not be short of options should he look for a new challenge.
For now, Chelsea fans will be hoping Maresca can keep his talented winger happy and firing on all cylinders, regardless of where he lines up on the pitch.
