It is quite clear that, like most managers, Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has his favourites.
The above includes the likes of Cole Palmer, Moises Caicedo and Pedro Neto, who were all named in Chelsea’s starting XI for Saturday’s game against Aston Villa.
On the other hand, players such as Filip Jorgensen, Tosin Adarabioyo and Josh Acheampong were left on the bench.
What did you make of the first half, Chelsea fans? What changes would you make in the second half if any?
Jorgensen is firmly behind Robert Sanchez in the pecking order, but Adarabioyo and Acheampong would have been hoping for an opportunity following Maresca’s decision to rest Wesley Fofana.
Tosin Adarabioyo rarely seen in December fixtures
Adarabioyo is really having a December to forget, with the central defender not getting much of a look-in since his nightmare display at Elland Road.
Adarabioyo really struggled in Chelsea’s 3-1 defeat to Leeds United at the start of the month and was responsible for the third goal that Maresca’s side conceded.
Following that game, the 28-year-old has not featured in any of the Blues’ subsequent four fixtures in the Premier League.
Chelsea need to make room before they can sign another centre-back. Who are you getting rid of?
Levi Colwill is definitely untouchable ❌
Chelsea’s list of first-team centre-backs
- Levi Colwill
- Wesley Fofana
- Trevoh Chalobah
- Benoit Badiashile
- Tosin Adarabioyo
- Josh Acheampong
Understandably, Maresca has stuck with the centre-back pairing of Fofana and Trevoh Chalobah, who have looked good together this season.
Again, though, the Chelsea manager rested Fofana against Villa, but instead of bringing Adarabioyo in, he went with Benoit Badiashile.
Tosin Adarabioyo should consider January exit
All in all, Adarabioyo has struggled at Stamford Bridge this season, but he is still a Premier League-proven defender who brings a real aerial presence to the pitch.
There are many other Premier League teams he would start at. Therefore, after his latest snub, the former Fulham man may have to consider an exit in January.
At Chelsea, Adarabioyo is probably only going to be a bench player, but he could have a lot to offer to another English club.
The Club World Cup winners are not expected to be busy during the winter transfer window, but exits do seem possible.
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