Joe Cole, a former Chelsea player, has expressed his disappointment and frustration over the club’s decision to sell Marc Guehi, a talented center-back who has since become a key player for Crystal Palace and the England national team.
Cole believes that Chelsea’s current defensive struggles could have been avoided if they had kept Guehi, who was allowed to leave the club for £18 million in 2021.
Guehi, who joined Chelsea’s academy at the age of seven, made just two appearances for the senior team before being loaned to Swansea City for two seasons.
Despite his potential, Chelsea decided to sell him to Crystal Palace, where he has since become a regular starter and one of the top center-backs in the Premier League.
Cole’s comments come as Chelsea are reportedly trying to re-sign Guehi during the January transfer window, with the club struggling with defensive injuries to Wesley Fofana and Benoît Badiashile.
Cole believes that Chelsea’s decision to sell Guehi was a mistake and that the club will now have to spend big to bring him back.
“It’s frustrating because they sold Marc Guehi, who has become a top center-back,” Cole said.
“He’s now a regular in England’s starting lineup, and Chelsea will have to spend big to bring him back. This kind of situation happens far too often at the club.”
Cole’s comments highlight the struggles that Chelsea have faced in recent years in terms of developing and retaining young talent.
The club has a reputation for buying and selling players, rather than developing them through their academy.
This approach has led to a lack of consistency and stability in the team, with players often being sold or loaned out without being given a chance to prove themselves.
Chelsea’s struggles continued with a 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace, extending their winless run since December 22.
The team’s lack of attacking efficiency has been a major concern, with critics pointing to their reliance on players like Cole Palmer while struggling to convert chances into goals.
Despite these struggles, Chelsea will aim to regain momentum in the FA Cup third round against League Two side Morecambe this Saturday.
The team will be looking to bounce back from their recent poor form and make a deep run in the competition.
In conclusion, Joe Cole’s comments highlight the mistakes that Chelsea have made in terms of developing and retaining young talent.
The club’s decision to sell Marc Guehi is a prime example of this, and it will be interesting to see if they can bring him back to the club during the January transfer window.
