Chelsea’s Oversized Squad Faces Criticism Amid Uncertain Futures

Chelsea’s decision to build an oversized squad has sparked criticism and accusations of poor recruitment practices, with pundits questioning the club's strategy.

The Blues currently have 42 first-team players listed on their website, but many have been absent from recent training sessions. Manager Enzo Maresca has faced persistent queries about the futures of these players during his two-month tenure at Stamford Bridge.

In a notable move, Maresca excluded Raheem Sterling, one of Chelsea's most prominent figures, from the squad for their 2-0 Premier League defeat against Manchester City on Sunday. This decision has added to the growing scrutiny of Chelsea’s squad management.

England midfielder Conor Gallagher has departed for Atletico Madrid, a move that has been met with mixed reactions from fans. Meanwhile, Armando Broja is set to join Ipswich on loan, with an obligation to buy. The futures of several other players, including defenders Ben Chilwell, Axel Disasi, Trevoh Chalobah, and midfielder Carney Chukwuemeka, remain uncertain.

Disasi did make a return for Chelsea in their 2-0 win over Servette in the UEFA Conference League play-off first leg at Stamford Bridge, but the rest are yet to find their place in the team.

Noni Madueke, who scored Chelsea's second goal in the Conference League fixture, has also been linked with a potential move to Newcastle. “The reality is until the transfer window is closed, anything can happen,” Maresca commented. “But for sure, Noni is the type of player I like.”

Despite the criticism, Chelsea has been the most active team in the Premier League’s transfer window, having signed 11 players, including a £45 million acquisition of Joao Felix from Atletico Madrid. This flurry of activity has led to allegations of stockpiling players, lacking a coherent plan, and disregarding academy talent.

Much of the criticism has been directed at chairman Todd Boehly, although it is co-owner Behdad Eghbali who wields significant influence within the American consortium that purchased the club in 2022. As the transfer window draws to a close, Chelsea’s approach to squad management and recruitment will remain under the spotlight.