Chelsea’s manager, Enzo Maresca, has recently addressed concerns about the club’s squad and transfer activity, insisting that the situation is under control. Critics have claimed that Chelsea’s transfer strategy has been chaotic, but Maresca disputes these claims, emphasizing that the club is not in disarray.

Chelsea’s Transfer Strategy: Not a Mess

Enzo Maresca dismissed the notion that Chelsea’s squad is a “mess” following recent transfer activity. Despite the increased number of players, Maresca argues that criticism of the club’s transfer policy has been unwarranted. He pointed out that he is working with a streamlined group of 21 players in first-team training.

Joao Felix Returns to Chelsea

Joao Felix, who has rejoined Chelsea from Atletico Madrid, signed a seven-year contract with the club. Felix’s return, following a less-than-stellar loan spell in the 2022/23 season, is part of Chelsea’s ongoing transfer activity. His move also facilitated Conor Gallagher’s transfer to Atletico Madrid.

Squad Management and Player Exclusions

Maresca has one of the largest squads in the Premier League but has made it clear that players like Raheem Sterling and Ben Chilwell are not part of his immediate plans. Sterling and Chilwell are currently training separately from the rest of the squad. Maresca noted that with such a large squad, it’s impractical to provide game time for every player.

Joao Felix’s Role and Transfer Details

Joao Felix is seen as a versatile player who can fill various roles for Chelsea, both in central and wide positions. While the exact transfer fee was not disclosed, reports suggest that Chelsea agreed to pay around £40 million ($51 million) to secure Felix’s services. Felix previously made 131 appearances for Atletico Madrid and had a brief loan spell with Chelsea, scoring four goals in 20 appearances.

Conor Gallagher’s Transfer and Departure

Conor Gallagher completed his permanent transfer to Atletico Madrid after a proposed move fell through last week. Gallagher, who had been training alone since his return to Chelsea, leaves after 95 appearances and 10 goals, having won the Europa League with the club in 2019.

Conclusion

Enzo Maresca’s comments underline that Chelsea’s transfer activity, though extensive, is part of a strategic plan rather than disorganization. The addition of Joao Felix and the departure of Conor Gallagher highlight Chelsea’s ongoing efforts to refine their squad and improve performance.

Source: ChannelsTv