Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca is reportedly not fully convinced by a player who is widely seen as a “complete” talent, despite the club’s hierarchy holding this individual in high regard.
This difference in opinion highlights potential internal disagreements over how to assess the squad’s strengths and weaknesses.
Looking ahead to the January transfer window, Chelsea is expected to part ways with several players, and Maresca and the club’s leadership appear to be on the same page regarding these departures.
One of the most notable names in this group is left-back Ben Chilwell.
Despite receiving interest from other clubs in the summer, Chelsea was unable to sell the £200,000-per-week defender.
Chilwell has only featured for 45 minutes this season, playing in the Carabao Cup against Barrow, and reports suggest Chelsea is actively seeking a buyer for him in the upcoming transfer window.
Other players who could leave Chelsea in January include Carney Chukwuemeka, who is reportedly on the transfer list amid interest from Barcelona.
There is also speculation around Cesare Casadei, with Italian sources claiming his departure is “inevitable” in January.
These potential moves are part of Chelsea’s broader strategy to reduce its wage bill and raise funds for further acquisitions.
Benoit Badiashile, another player under scrutiny, has found it difficult to secure a regular spot in the starting lineup under Maresca.
While Chelsea management views the 23-year-old French defender as a solid backup option, Maresca has expressed doubts about Badiashile’s fit in the squad.
As a result, Chelsea is exploring other defensive possibilities, including a potential move for Ilia Zabarnyi from Bournemouth.
Badiashile’s future at the club is uncertain, with questions arising about whether he will accept a long-term bench role.
Despite Chelsea’s high regard for his potential, Maresca’s reservations about him suggest a complicated situation.
Joao Tralhao, who previously worked as an assistant coach at Monaco, praised Badiashile’s abilities in an interview with Sky Sports, describing him as a “complete defender.”
Tralhao highlighted Badiashile’s football intelligence, aerial prowess, and his ability to read the game, further emphasizing his talent.
As Chelsea moves forward, the club is navigating a crucial period in which it must make key decisions regarding its squad.
Balancing Maresca’s tactical vision with the club’s broader objectives and the interests of individual players will be essential as the club aims to reshape its team in the coming months.
