“Works Well”: Enzo Maresca Offers Ruud van Nistelrooy Advice on Unlocking the Best from Leicester’s ‘Top’ Star.

Enzo Maresca is highly familiar with Leicester’s squad, having led them to the Championship title last season before moving to Chelsea.

While Maresca successfully brought out the best in the team, Ruud van Nistelrooy is facing greater challenges, securing just three wins in his first four games compared to Maresca’s four.

One key player in Maresca’s system was Ricardo Pereira, and he has offered advice on how Van Nistelrooy can better utilize him as Leicester struggles.

Maresca’s tactical setup is well-known, with both Leicester and Chelsea playing in a 4-2-3-1 formation.

In this system, the right-back takes on an inverted role, moving into the midfield when in possession, which allows the defense to form a back three. This role was crucial for Pereira’s contributions.

However, under both Steve Cooper and Van Nistelrooy, Pereira hasn’t been used in this way.

When asked about how Chelsea managed Reece James’ fitness, Maresca referenced his experience with Pereira, noting how both full-backs are key to the system.

He described Pereira as a “top player” and explained that data shows when full-backs follow this inverted approach, they cover more ground, moving inside more frequently than simply running up and down the flank.

Maressa emphasized how injuries had hampered Pereira’s progress, but he was a standout performer under his management, playing every game last season after a slight tactical shift.

“Last year at Leicester, Ricardo Pereira could have been a top player for a top team,” Maresca said, highlighting how the tactical adjustment worked well for the player.

Pereira, however, has faced a challenging season.

After playing a central role the previous year, it was unexpected when Cooper dropped him in favor of James Justin, who has struggled with form.

Following a four-month injury layoff, Pereira has only made brief appearances off the bench.

A potential start against Brighton would mark his first in five months, and given the team’s current struggles, his experience could be crucial at this point in the season.