Enzo Maresca has revealed he is still taking advice from his ‘professional dad’ Manuel Pellegrini – despite the pair being just days away from facing each other in a European final.
Maresca’s Chelsea will take on a Real Betis side led by Pellegrini in the Conference League final in Poland next Wednesday as both teams look to finish their season with silverware.
Having played under Pellegrini at Malaga, Maresca then worked with the Spaniard as his assistant coach at West Ham.
They have since gone their separate ways, but remain in close contact, and Maresca has insisted that will not be changing even though they will be in opposite dugouts next week.
Asked about his relationship with Pellegrini at his Conference League final media day, Maresca said: ‘It’s special. I spent four years with Manuel, he is a reference for me because of his career and history.
‘As a human being, he is a top person. I see him as a professional dad, as when I need to take a decision, I speak with him.
Enzo Maresca has spoken about his close relationship with Real Betis boss Manuel Pellegrini
Maresca was Pellegrini’s assistant at West Ham and considers him his ‘professional dad’, having previously played under him at Malaga
Maresca’s Chelsea will look to take down Pellegrini’s Real Betis in next week’s Conference League final
‘I spoke to Manuel yesterday, to be honest, because we are so close.’
Chelsea still have plenty to play for in their final week of the season, with the Blues travelling to Nottingham Forest on Sunday for their last league game in the hope of securing a top-five finish and a place in next season’s Champions League.
Robert Sanchez is likely to start that match having reclaimed his place as Chelsea’s No 1 in recent weeks after an indifferent campaign.
However, Maresca has confirmed Filip Jorgensen will take the gloves for the Conference League final, as Chelsea bid to become the first club to win all three of UEFA’s club competitions.