Maresca, 44, has faced profound under-achievement at Stamford Bridge after his chess dissertation at Coverciano, Italy’s university of football. He must now attach end product to tactical artifice and unfurl a progressive manifesto to suit an energetic young squad. During his year at Leicester, Maresca lived on-site at the training ground and played out from the back, earning comparisons to ‘Diet Pep’.

However, he faces a different challenge at Chelsea, where the hardcore fans may not be as receptive to the slow build-up style of play. Maresca’s coaching journey has been challenging, with his first senior role at Parma lasting just 14 games. His time at Juventus, where he learned to win under the tutelage of Carlo Ancelotti and Marcelo Lippi, has shaped his mentality.

Now at Stamford Bridge, Maresca will expect the same winning mentality from his players, aiming for a return to the class of 2004 embodied by Petr Cech. His chess lingo refers to creating a strategic advantage akin to a ‘Czech mate.’ Maresca’s coaching experience in both Italy and England has prepared him for the challenge ahead, and he is determined to make a impact at Chelsea.