The pressure of big transfer fees can be a “big problem” for players – Enzo Maresca

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca fears the added pressure that comes with big transfer fees could be a “big problem” for players.

The Blues enjoyed another summer of big spending as they brought in players like Pedro Neto, João Félix and Jadon Sancho to reinforce their squad.

Since the Todd Boehly-led Clearlake consortium took over the club in 2022, they have broken the Premier League transfer record twice, with Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo.

Maresca believes that high fees can weigh heavily on players.

Generally speaking, he said: “Price doesn’t have to be an issue for them, it’s something players can’t do anything about.

“Sometimes players feel pressured because the club pays a lot, but that’s a big problem and a weight on their shoulders that doesn’t help the players.”

Marc Cucurella joined Chelsea for £62m in 2022.

The versatile Spaniard, who initially struggled to adapt to life in west London, has witnessed a resurgence under Maresca, who praised his ability to learn.

“I think Marc is a very intelligent player, very intelligent,” Maresca said.

“Against Bournemouth he played as an attacking midfielder and West Ham as a midfielder and full-back without the ball. It is versatile and can give us different options.

“From day one, I don’t want players to do things without them understanding why they do it, so I don’t just ask them to run, I think it’s cool to help players know why they do things.

“Marc is one of those guys that, once we explain the reasons, he understands immediately.”

Saturday’s Premier League clash with Brighton will be a chance for Cucurella, Caicedo, Robert Sanchez and Levi Colwill to face their former club.

Both Cucurella and Caicedo were booed during the Blues’ 2-1 victory over Brighton at the Amex Stadium in May.

Asked about the reaction his players will receive from traveling fans on Saturday, Maresca said: “The Brighton fans are not happy, but the Brighton owners are probably happy.

“The reason Chelsea paid for them is because they did fantastic at Brighton. Moises, Robert and Marc, even Levi, who was on loan, are all fantastic players and I’m happy to have them.”