Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca admits that he will not stand in Ben Chilwell’s way if he wishes to leave Stamford Bridge before the end of the summer transfer window.
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has publicly acknowledged that Ben Chilwell does not feature in his plans for 2024-25.
The relentless spending of co-owners Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital has left the Blues with 43 players who could be used in the first-team squad.
As a result, a wide array of sales and loans are expected to materialise over the next two-and-a-half weeks with some high-profile names featuring on the list of potential outgoings.
Earlier this week, a report emerged suggesting that Chilwell was at risk of not being selected in Chelsea’s Premier League squad when it is finalised at the end of the summer transfer window.
Chilwell remained as an unused substitute for four of Chelsea’s six pre-season friendlies, including the last three when Maresca was making firm decisions over team selection.
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Maresca speaks on Chilwell future
Maresca is seemingly content to have Marc Cucurella as his first choice with Malo Gusto, Levi Colwill and Renato Veiga providing cover if and when required.
Ahead of Chelsea’s Premier League opener against Manchester City on Sunday, Maresca has admitted that he currently has no plans to provide game time for the 27-year-old.
As quoted by BBC Sport journalist Nizaar Kinsella, Maresca said: “This morning we had 22 players training and if you ask all of them they want to play against City on Sunday but that is impossible.
“When you train every day and not get any minutes it is not good for them or for me and I need to make a decision.
“Probably it is better to leave and go and get minutes. The transfer window is open so we will see what will happen.”
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Will Chelsea be able to attract permanent offers?
Given Chilwell’s status and wages, Chelsea would naturally prefer to cash in on the left-back, who has made just 106 appearances across four seasons.
However, his injury issues and Chelsea’s known desire to part ways may hinder them when it comes to trying to recoup their currently-unknown asking price.
With Chilwell having three years remaining on his contract, Chelsea could potentially be prepared to accept a loan fee if an interested team is willing to take on the player’s wages.
Chelsea and Chilwell may have to bide their time to see whether opportunities arise closer towards the deadline when there could be a greater urgency to negotiate terms.