Enzo Maresca hints at HUGE Chelsea exit

Cameron Smith

• 30 Jul 2024 18:45 BST
• 3 min read

Enzo Maresca has hinted that Ben Chilwell isn’t a natural fit in his preferred system as the Chelsea vice-captain faces an uncertain future in west London.

Chilwell, 27, has been tentatively linked with a summer exit and Maresca’s latest comments suggest that a departure isn’t out of the question.

The England left-back starred during his first season at Stamford Bridge, as he helped the club win the 2021 Champions League, but injury problems have plagued his Chelsea career ever since.

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Maresca’s inverted full-back system was expected to be a problem for Chilwell and the Italian has confirmed as much in his latest press conference.

The new Blues head coach was asked about Chilwell and told reporters: “Chilly is left-back, for sure. I see him as a left full-back.

“Chilly's situation is a bit delicate in terms of trying to find a solution for him in his position. Delicate in terms of finding the right position for him.”

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So far during pre-season, Maresca has used Reece James and Malo Gusto as inverted right-backs, while Levi Colwill has started at left-back before moving into a centre-back role in possession.

As a more attack-minded full-back, Chilwell doesn’t have a natural home in Chelsea’s new style of play and Maresca’s comments prove he is clearly struggling to find a place for the 27-year-old.

Marc Cucurella and new signing Renato Veiga are also left-back options available to the Blues, and Chelsea could feasibly look to sell Chilwell if he doesn’t fit in Maresca’s system.

Manchester United have been linked with a move for the ex-Leicester City star, who has three years left on his current Stamford Bridge deal.

Conor Gallagher latest

Maresca also provided an update on Conor Gallagher amid reports that Chelsea are in concrete talks with Atletico Madrid as the Spanish giants push to sign the England international.

“At the moment, Conor will be back with us at Cobham. He will be in Cobham in the next [few] days,” Maresca said.

“If the transfer window is open, anything can happen. Not only for Conor but for all of the players.”