Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has indicated that two players, Ben Chilwell and Carney Chukwuemeka, could leave the club in January.
Both have struggled for playing time this season, with neither featuring in the Premier League so far. While several squad members have received important minutes in the Conference League, Chilwell and Chukwuemeka have also found limited opportunities there. Maresca has now acknowledged he would be open to their departure in the upcoming transfer window.
Chilwell, with his vast Premier League experience, had been linked with Manchester United during the summer, though his high wages, reportedly £200,000 per week, may deter many suitors. Chukwuemeka, on the other hand, is a more affordable option and has previously drawn interest from clubs like Barcelona and AC Milan, making a potential exit next month likely.
Ahead of Chelsea’s Premier League match against Everton on Sunday, Maresca spoke to the media: “There are players, unfortunately, who haven’t played much in all competitions, like Chilwell and Carney. They’re probably the first who would want to leave, as they train every day to play. If they don’t get the chance, they might be thinking about leaving. Every player’s situation is different, so we’ll see if anyone comes to us and expresses a desire to leave. We’ll look for a solution.”
Since taking over in the summer, Maresca has not hesitated to make bold decisions, including sidelining players like Raheem Sterling, Chilwell, and Chukwuemeka. However, his approach seems to be paying off, as Chelsea’s strong results suggest he is building a squad that is beginning to click. At this rate, the club is in contention to top the Premier League by the end of 2024.
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