A few days ago, we suggested tha Ethan Ampadu should move clubs in search of more first-team football, and this advice might also apply to Callum Hudson-Odoi.
The 17-year-old winger was Chelsea’s best attacker during pre-season. However, he has not played a single competitive minute since the season began.
Talented youngsters at other big English clubs of a similar age to Hudson-Odoi are getting regular game time for loan clubs.
For example, 18-year-old Jadon Sancho, formerly of Manchester City’s youth team, started for Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League this week. Reiss Nelson, on loan from Arsenal, is also thriving in the Bundesliga for Hoffenheim.
Of course, Hudson-Odoi may well start in Europa League games. But even this does not look likely at the moment given that he did not even make the bench for the game against PAOK.
In all probability, he will return to playing youth team matches in front of three men and a dog when the weekend comes around.
Sancho and Reiss would be in the same position as Hudson-Odoi had they remained at their parent clubs. As it is, they are playing meaningful minutes at the highest level of football. The early signs suggest that the chances of the Chelsea youngster gaining similar valuable experience look slim.
Therefore, he must consider his options in January. Loan opportunities will be plentiful. He should take one of these opportunities for his long-term future and for Chelsea’s ultimate gain.