Some Chelsea players will not be happy with Enzo Maresca right now after their lack of game time.
The likes of Joao Felix, Axel Disasi and Christopher Nkunku have not had too many starting opportunities under Enzo Maresca this season.
The first two names could now move to Aston Villa before the January transfer window closes. Disasi has reportedly agreed personal terms with Villa already.
Another Chelsea star who will also be frustrated with Maresca is Ben Chilwell. The defender has not featured in the Premier League at all in the current campaign, which is badly impacting his ambitions.
Ben Chilwell wanted to become one of England’s best-ever left-backs
When Chilwell was still at Leicester City, he dreamt about being an England regular and becoming one of the country’s best-ever left-backs.
In an interview with Sky Sports in December 2018, Chilwell said: “The long-term aim is obviously to be the first-choice left-back for 10 years to come and be one of the best left-backs that England has ever had. But that’s obviously in the back of my head.”
The above has not happened, partly because of injuries, and Maresca is ensuring that things will not change any time soon.
The Chelsea manager has refused to use Chilwell this season, with the England international making just one appearance, which came in the Carabao Cup all the way back in September. He was not even registered for the Conference League, really showing his fall from grace at Chelsea.
Chilwell has been linked to Borussia Dortmund, but he is running out of time to secure a move. The January transfer window closes next Monday.
Enzo Maresca should utilise Ben Chilwell following Renato Veiga exit
It is quite obvious that Maresca is not a fan of Chilwell. The Italian had concerns about him as soon as he arrived at Chelsea.
When Maresca discussed Chilwell during pre-season, he said: “His situation is a bit delicate in terms of we are trying to find a solution for him in terms of position. But he probably needs a bit of time. Delicate in terms of finding the right position for him.”
However, left-back is not a position where Chelsea are blessed with options. Following Renato Veiga‘s loan move to Juventus, the Blues are now light there.
Therefore, with it looking more and more likely that Chilwell will be remaining at Stamford Bridge, Maresca should start giving him first-team opportunities. The 44-year-old has a proven England international with plenty of Premier League experience; he may as well use him.
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