In an exclusive interview, Chelsea's young defender Levi Colwill shares his admiration for manager Enzo Maresca and reflects on his football journey. The 22-year-old English center-back has made a significant impact this season under Maresca's guidance, playing 25 matches as the team competes for Champions League spots. Colwill highlights Maresca's unique approach to the game, which he believes sets him apart from other coaches. "Maresca's strategic thinking is unparalleled," Colwill explained. "He challenges me to understand the game from a fresh perspective, and I feel incredibly fortunate to be learning from him."
Beyond his current role at Chelsea, Colwill also delves into his early days in football. Having joined Chelsea's youth academy at a young age, he recalls growing up alongside talented peers like Jamal Musiala and Tina Livramento. "The environment at Chelsea's academy was exceptional," he noted. "It molded us into formidable players. We were nurtured to become fierce competitors." Colwill further mentions the recent debuts of younger teammates such as Shim Mheuka and praises the potential of others like Tyrique George and Josh Acheampong. He also shared personal moments, including scoring against his hometown club Southampton, which held special meaning for him.
Colwill's development took a pivotal turn during his loan spells at Huddersfield Town and Brighton. At Huddersfield, he experienced both triumphs and setbacks, including scoring an own goal in the play-off final. "That period shaped me as a person," he reflected. "Being surrounded by seasoned professionals taught me invaluable lessons." At Brighton, under Roberto de Zerbi, Colwill faced initial challenges but ultimately grew stronger. "De Zerbi pushed me to my limits and helped me evolve into a better player," he said. Additionally, Colwill expressed pride in representing England, having made his senior debut in 2023. "Playing for my country is a dream come true," he emphasized. "Each match adds to my passion for the sport."
Colwill's involvement extends beyond top-tier football; he is also an associate director at Sholing FC, a seventh-tier club in Southampton. This role allows him to give back to the community and provide opportunities for young players. "Sholing offers a platform for aspiring talents who may have been overlooked by academies," he stated. "It's about nurturing dreams and giving everyone a fair chance to shine."
Through his journey, Colwill exemplifies dedication and resilience, qualities that define a true sportsman. His experiences highlight the importance of mentorship, perseverance, and community engagement in shaping successful athletes. By embracing every challenge, Colwill continues to grow both on and off the field, inspiring future generations to pursue their dreams with unwavering determination.