Maresca disputes Mourinho's view on Garnacho's performance in the Champions League

Chelsea defeated Benfica 1-0 in the Champions League, and Garnacho became a focal point amid differing opinions from Jose Mourinho and coach Enzo Maresca.

Chelsea achieved a crucial 1-0 win against Benfica in the Champions League thanks to an own goal by Richard Rios in the first half. However, the spotlight after the match was on Alejandro Garnacho, with Jose Mourinho and coach Enzo Maresca holding completely opposing views on the Argentine player's performance.

Garnacho, a £40 million signing from Manchester United, was given his second start for Chelsea since joining Stamford Bridge. The 19-year-old forward made only a few notable moments before being substituted in the 61st minute for Jamie Gittens. In Mourinho's eyes, both Garnacho and defender Malo Gusto failed to make an impact and were taken off early. He said: "Malo Gusto struggled, Reece James came on, Garnacho as well, Jamie Gittens replaced him. They had some difficulties."

However, coach Enzo Maresca had a completely different perspective. He expressed satisfaction with the contribution of the Argentine newcomer: "Yes, tonight we started with Garnacho, it was his second consecutive start. Tyrique George played as the striker, and maybe he is not yet comfortable in that role. Facundo Buonanotte played a key part tonight. In my opinion, this win feels good for many reasons: limiting injuries, performances from new players. Garnacho played very well. I think Gittens did too; he gave his all in the last 20 minutes. Both will improve more with each game."

This disagreement between Mourinho and Maresca highlights their different views on Garnacho — one of Chelsea's most highly anticipated talents this season. While Mourinho believes the player is still "struggling," Maresca trusts that Garnacho has made a positive impact and will develop further with each Champions League appearance.

Not stopping at Garnacho, Mourinho also criticized the referee, claiming that Benfica's Joao Pedro should have been sent off earlier for a foul on Nicolas Otamendi. "I think we did everything well except winning and scoring. I feel that Joao Pedro should have been sent off earlier for his challenge on Otamendi; normally, a player with a yellow card wouldn’t risk such a foul. Chelsea struggled even when both teams had 11 players, so if Benfica had a numerical advantage, the situation would definitely have been different," Mourinho shared.

Despite ongoing debate, this victory boosts Chelsea’s confidence in their Champions League journey and opens more opportunities for Garnacho to prove his worth following the blockbuster signing. Will the young Argentine talent live up to Maresca’s trust, or will Mourinho’s more skeptical view prove accurate?