Enzo Maresca: Chelsea's 40-Man Squad Needs Solutions

Enzo Maresca, Chelsea boss has voiced concerns about managing his large squad which has grown to over 40 players after the club made 11 new signings this summer. He emphasized that handling such a large group presents challenges for any manager trying to conduct effective training sessions with 45 players. Currently, he directs his focus toward a core group of 21 to 23 players while assigning several others including England internationals Raheem Sterling and Ben Chilwell to train separately.

Sterling, who did not feature in Chelsea’s recent Premier League match against Manchester City and their Europa Conference League play-off against Servette is reportedly seeking clarity about his future at the club. Crystal Palace has shown interest in the 29-year-old, although their manager, Oliver Glasner stated that while he considers Sterling a fantastic player, the move to Palace is not guaranteed.

Meanwhile, England midfielder Conor Gallagher has joined Atletico Madrid, a move that some Chelsea fans have criticized. Additionally, striker Armando Broja plans to join Ipswich on a loan deal 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 as the transfer window nears its end.

Enzo Maresca stressed the importance of resolving these uncertainties within the squad, warning that unresolved issues could create problems. With the transfer window closing on August 30, Chelsea faces limited time to trim their squad and finalize player decisions.