Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has thrown his support behind promising winger Tyrique George, naming the teenage sensation as a potential replacement for Jadon Sancho ahead of the FIFA Club World Cup (CWC) in the United States.

George, who made headlines earlier this year by becoming the youngest player of Nigerian descent to score for Chelsea in the Premier League, is now being considered for an even bigger stage. His landmark goal came during an Easter Sunday clash against Fulham, surpassing the previous record held by Carney Chukwuemeka.

Sancho, who spent last season on loan at Stamford Bridge, has returned to Manchester United after his move failed to materialize into a permanent deal. His exit has left Chelsea light in wide areas, prompting Maresca to evaluate his current options.

Speaking at a pre-match press conference ahead of Chelsea’s CWC opener against Los Angeles FC, Maresca hinted at George’s growing importance.

> “Jadon is not with us, so for sure that is a position we need to do something,” said the Italian tactician. “At this moment, we have Noni [Madueke], Pedro [Neto], and Tyrique as proper wingers. So for sure, something has to happen.”

George, 19, enjoyed a breakthrough season, splitting time between Chelsea’s senior and youth sides. He contributed two goals and three assists in 20 appearances across the Premier League and UEFA Conference League. His flair was also on display in Premier League 2, where he added another goal and five assists in just eight games.

His standout performances were recognized at the club’s end-of-season awards, where he was crowned Chelsea Academy’s Young Player of the Year.

With the Club World Cup offering a global spotlight, George is determined to seize the opportunity and establish himself as a key figure in Maresca’s Chelsea revolution.