As Chelsea navigates through a season of defensive experimentation, Rio Ferdinand has voiced a strong opinion on the Blues’ backline.
According to Ferdinand, Chelsea should enter the next season with a central defensive partnership featuring Thiago Silva alongside Levi Colwill.
The 2023/24 campaign has witnessed Pochettino trying various combinations at center-half. This includes Silva and Colwill, along with the likes of Axel Disasi and Benoit Badiashile.
While the season is still unfolding, Ferdinand believes that establishing consistency in the defensive lineup is crucial for Chelsea’s success.
Ferdinand expressed his view, stating. “Next season I’d keep Thiago Silva still and play Colwill left center-half “. This recommendation, however, may face several obstacles in implementation.
One significant challenge is the impending expiration of Thiago Silva’s contract at Stamford Bridge this summer.
Despite the 39-year-old’s advancing age, Ferdinand advocates for Chelsea to retain the veteran center-back and offer him a new deal.
Thiago Silva still a good player for Chelsea?
While internal discussions about extending Silva’s contract have reportedly taken place, there has been no official proposal on the table as yet.
Although, Levi Colwill has been deployed out of position at left-back for a considerable portion of the season.
Despite this, the 20-year-old’s future is believed to lie at the heart of Chelsea’s defense, promising a potential long-term partnership with Silva.
The scenario may become more complex with the looming return of Wesley Fofana from a long-term injury.
The talented defender, once back in action, could add another layer of competition for a spot in Chelsea’s starting XI.
As Chelsea grapples with defensive challenges in the current campaign, the idea of building the future around the Silva-Colwill partnership resonates with Ferdinand’s vision for a solid and consistent backline.
The club’s decision-makers face critical choices in the coming months, involving contract negotiations, player development, and squad planning, all with the aim of constructing a formidable defense that can propel Chelsea to success in the seasons to come.
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