Ben Chilwell returned from exile in Chelsea’s Carabao cup clash against Barrow. Enzo Maresca called him into the first-team squad.
The manager who had previously instructed him to train seperately, has given permission to train with the first team. It is likely that, the England international has convinced the Italian to give him a chance to prove himself.
The former Leicester City defender was a part of Enzo Maresca’s “black list” where he axed many senior players to accommodate new signings. However, Chilwell being unable to find a suitable club, had to settle at the Stamford bridge.
Marseca openly admitted in a press conference, that he is not a preferred starter, and advised him to find a new club.
However, the manager had a sudden change of mind and he decided to give him a chance to revive his Chelsea career. When asked about Chilwell in a press conference, he says;
“Hopefully we can give him some minutes tomorrow.”
“The idea for him was to leave. In the moment that he’s here, he’s one of the squad, he’s training.”
“He will be in the squad tomorrow and hopefully we can give him some minutes.”
Marseca has decided to rotate his squad during Carabao cup fixtures, giving his “black listed” players and opportunity to showcase their abilities.
Chelsea smash Barrow 5-0: Chilwell returns from the bench
New Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca shuffled his whole playing XI against Barrow. The Italian made eleven changes from the team which thrashed West Ham last week.
However, their absence was hardly felt, as the Blues’ “billion dollar squad” is more than enough to overcome Barrow.
Chelsea put on a show of dominance as Christopher Nkunku stole the show with a fantastic hat-trick. Joao Felix and Mudryk also started in the attack.
Barrow stood no chance against the Blues’ who were ruthless from the start. It was probably the best performance from Joao Felix in a Chelsea shirt.
The manager ended Ben Chilwell’s exile after subbing him on the pitch in the second half. The 27-year old received a warm welcome from the fans who cheered him on.
Not a single Chelsea fan thought they would see Chilwell wearing the iconic blue shirt again. He is surely out of the manager’s plans, only a miraculous redemption would cement his previous spot at the club next season.
This season, he won’t feature in the big games but the manager has decided to use his “cold storage” players in matches of less importance. Certain section of fans have criticised the manager’s cold and brutal approach.
The 27-year old was also given the captain’s armband. This will surely give him much needed confidence to revive his career.
Madueke’s future at Stamford Bridge uncertain
According to The Boot Room, Madueke has been told he’s fighting for his Chelsea future. His teammates Christopher Nkunku and Mudryk have also been given the same warning.
Maresca has an abundance of wingers at his mercy. Having too many players in the same position, creates chaos and unrest in the dressing room. This may prompt the manager to black list few more attackers next season.
Madueke has been sensational this season, but his good form won’t be enough to win over the manager. He scored a sensational hat-trick against Wolves which earned him his first ever England cap against Finland.
The Chelsea management has reportedly informed these three players that if they don’t perform according to the manager’s expectations, the club will sanction their exits next season.
The English winger heaped praises on Maresca-ball after he was selected in the national team for the first time. He says;
“It’s a winger’s dream. He wants you to stay as high as possible on the pitch and wide, threaten the back line, make runs and go 1v1. For me, that’s my bread and butter. It’s really good.”
“I feel like Enzo, in terms of the tactic, he’s one of the best, for sure. He’s very good tactically. And, yeah, he simplifies the game for you.”
“And as a player that’s what you want from a coach.”Well, he’s certainly showing that he’s enjoying it so far!”
Madueke must keep improving consistently and hope the manager also shares the same thoughts regarding him when the season ends.
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