Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca addressed the media on Friday ahead of his team’s Premier League fixture against Brighton & Hove Albion. Among the key topics of discussion was Tosin Adarabioyo, the centre-back who became Chelsea’s first summer signing under Maresca. Adarabioyo, a product of Manchester City’s academy, joined Chelsea on a four-year deal after turning down a lucrative contract extension at Fulham.
While Adarabioyo has yet to cement a permanent place in Chelsea’s starting lineup, the 27-year-old has impressed in his appearances, notably contributing to back-to-back clean sheets in the Premier League against Bournemouth and West Ham United. He also delivered a standout performance in his full debut for Chelsea, a 2-0 win over Servette FC in the Conference League at Stamford Bridge.
Maresca, who worked with Adarabioyo during their time together at Manchester City, expressed his admiration for the defender both on and off the pitch.
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“I’m very impressed,” Maresca told reporters. “I know Tosin from City, and I’m especially impressed with how he behaves inside and outside the pitch. He is one of the leaders in the changing room, so we are very delighted and happy with him.”
Maresca’s familiarity with Adarabioyo’s capabilities has helped the defender settle quickly into Chelsea’s defensive setup, with the Blues manager emphasizing Tosin’s leadership qualities and professionalism.
Tosin Adarabioyo’s international future has sparked much debate, particularly in Nigeria, where fans are eager to see the towering defender commit to the Super Eagles. However, despite circulating rumors that he has chosen Nigeria over England, there has been no official approach from the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) or Super Eagles interim boss Augustine Eguavoen ahead of the upcoming international break in October.
The possibility of representing Nigeria remains open for Adarabioyo, who is yet to make a senior appearance for either England or Nigeria. His older brother, Fisayo Adarabioyo, was once called up to Nigeria’s U23 squad by ex-coach Samson Siasia for a training camp in December 2014 but did not attend.
