“I regret they didn’t sell him” – Chelsea regret not selling £50m player this summer
Chelsea’s Transfer Window: A Mixed Bag of Lost Chances and Accomplished Goals
An Active Transfer Window with Additional Space
Even though Chelsea signed a lot of new players and let go of some old ones during the transfer window, there’s still a sense that they could have done even more to improve their roster. The number of players at Stamford Bridge was never a secret, but new manager Enzo Maresca has kept cool under pressure and concentrated on his current assignment.
Maresca’s Severe Method
With some unexpected choices made along the road, Maresca has adopted a refreshingly clear attitude on who fits into and who doesn’t fit into his vision for the team. Raheem Sterling was notably left out of the squad, which led to a last-minute move to Arsenal. However, not every player seeking a move was able to find a new club this summer.
The Ben Chilwell Dilemma
One such player is Ben Chilwell, who was named vice-captain when Maresca took over at Chelsea. Despite this leadership role, it’s become clear that Chilwell doesn’t feature in Maresca’s plans, as he has yet to be included in a matchday squad this season. According to reports from The Athletic, there is genuine regret within the club that they couldn’t offload their £50 million signing from 2020.
Financial Factors and Missed Opportunities
While wages may have played a role in Chilwell staying put, Chelsea’s ability to move high-earning players like Sterling and Romelu Lukaku suggests that a transfer was possible. This has only added to the frustration of not finding a suitable exit for Chilwell.
Renato Veiga’s Rise
In the current setup, Marc Cucurella has solidified his position as the first-choice left-back, continuing the impressive form he displayed at the end of last season. Behind him, Renato Veiga has emerged as a key backup option, widely regarded as one of Chelsea’s smartest signings of the window. The tall youngster has already proven his versatility by helping out in midfield and has earned Maresca’s trust, regularly coming off the bench and starting in European fixtures.
Looking Ahead: Veiga’s Role
With a packed schedule leading up to Christmas, Veiga is likely to see plenty of action, establishing himself as a crucial part of Chelsea’s squad rotation. His ability to adapt and perform under pressure could make him an invaluable asset as the season progresses.