Tomorrow’s game against Ajax carries extra resonance for one Chelsea player in particular: Jorrel Hato.
The defender made his debut for Ajax at the age of 16 and was captaining the side just a year later, a testament to his natural ability, hard work, and leadership skills.
After over 100 appearances for the Amsterdam side, Hato departed for Chelsea this summer. He has played five games for Enzo Maresca’s Blues so far.
Our head coach was asked about Hato at his press conference at Stamford Bridge today, explaining that the Dutchman's quality in possession allows him to play as a central defender or a full-back.
Maresca added Hato can join the midfield in the attacking phase, too, and that he has liked what he has seen from the 19-year-old.
‘We are very happy with Jorrel since he arrived,’ said Maresca. ‘He is trying to adapt a little bit to a different competition, English football, but we are very happy with him.
‘The first two or three weeks he struggled a little bit in terms of physicality and intensity, but he is getting better and better.’
Hato also received praise from Tosin Adarabioyo, one of his fellow defenders in the squad. At 28, Tosin is almost a decade Hato’s senior, and he told the press what it is about the young Dutchman that has caught his eye.
‘His all-round game is top,’ said Tosin. ‘The way I’ve seen him go forward in training is amazing. He’s composed and the way he brings that aggressiveness into his game is something that is great to see.
‘He’s settled in very well. He’s working incredibly hard every single day, learning our system and getting used to the way we play and English football, so we’re all very happy with Jorrel.’