'I wasn't too happy' - Chelsea midfielder Cesare Casadei admits hating life at Stamford Bridge under new USMNT boss Mauricio Pochettino

The 21-year-old, who joined Chelsea in 2022 from Inter, faced a difficult period after his loan at Leicester was cut short in January of last season. After returning to west London, he managed only 71 minutes of game time under Pochettino, spread across 11 substitute appearances, much to his frustration.

“It was pretty hard under Pochettino because I only made a few appearances as a substitute," he told Tuttosport. "Eleven games, but only 71 minutes on the pitch. I wasn’t too happy. Everyone would like to play more."

However, the arrival of Enzo Maresca at Chelsea this season has completely transformed Casadei’s outlook. The Italian coach, who previously worked with several young stars, including Casadei at Leicester, brought a new energy and tactical vision that reignited the midfielder’s career.

“I was thrilled when I saw Maresca arrive at Stamford Bridge," he said. "I am not the only one who has already worked with him. [Kiernan] Dewsbury-Hall came from Leicester. [Cole] Palmer and [Romeo] Lavia played under him at Manchester City. The coach was very clear from the first day, and everyone understood his ideas. Being a compatriot is handy because of the language; I can immediately understand his tactical instructions. However, I am treated the same way as anyone else. There are no privileges.”

Despite the option to leave on loan during the summer transfer window, Casadei decided to remain at Chelsea after a conversation with Maresca. The young midfielder's confidence in his decision has only grown as he continues to play an important role under Maresca’s system.

"Maresca told me what he thinks, and I had no doubts," Casadei explained. "I remained here without even considering potential loan deals. I'm not even thinking about the January transfer window. I couldn’t be more proud to play for Chelsea, and the competition is one of the reasons why I decided to stay.

"I like the way he sees football. We are working well under his guidance. I think he is a top coach because he can get the best out of everyone. He’s exigent as you expect him to be. We are at Chelsea and we have great expectations."

Casadei has already made significant contributions, playing full matches in both the Carabao Cup against Barrow and the Conference League against Gent. With Maresca at the helm, Casadei feels fully supported and prepared to take on the challenges ahead as he aims to secure a regular place in Chelsea’s first team.