Chelsea has been dealt a significant blow as Enzo Maresca has confirmed that a key player will no longer be part of the squad. Maresca stated the player will miss today’s game and future matches, explaining, “He is a good player, but with so many midfield options, he would struggle for minutes.”

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has confirmed that Carney Chukwuemeka is set to leave the club, as the 21-year-old midfielder has struggled for minutes in a highly competitive squad. Chukwuemeka will miss Chelsea’s FA Cup third-round tie against Morecambe, with Maresca explaining, “He is a good player, but we have so many midfield players that he will struggle for minutes.”

Limited Opportunities at Chelsea

Since joining from Aston Villa in 2022, Chukwuemeka has found first-team chances hard to come by, particularly with Chelsea’s midfield depth featuring players like Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez, and Romeo Lavia. Maresca previously stated in September 2024, “I really, really like Carney. The problem is that we have so many attacking midfielders that he is going to struggle to find space.”

Chukwuemeka has made only a handful of appearances this season, prompting the club to consider a move that would benefit his development. Maresca suggested that a loan move could provide the regular playing time he needs, while Chelsea remains open to permanent offers as well.

Clubs Interested in Chukwuemeka

Several clubs are monitoring Chukwuemeka’s situation. West Ham United has been linked with both Chukwuemeka and Chelsea teammate Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, as they aim to strengthen their midfield in a challenging Premier League season. Meanwhile, Italian side Torino showed interest during the summer transfer window, but no deal materialized.

Reports suggest that Chelsea values Chukwuemeka at around £40 million, with discussions of loan or permanent moves ongoing. European clubs may also enter the race for his signature as the January transfer window progresses.

Chelsea’s Packed Midfield

Chelsea’s abundance of midfield talent has limited opportunities for fringe players like Chukwuemeka. Maresca acknowledged the situation, saying, “There are players that unfortunately didn’t play a lot with us in all the competitions… Probably they’re the first that will want to leave because they work every day because they want to play.”

What’s Next for Chukwuemeka?

A January move appears increasingly likely for Chukwuemeka, who needs consistent game time to develop and showcase his potential. Whether through a loan to a Premier League rival like West Ham or a permanent transfer abroad, his departure could provide the platform for him to flourish while alleviating Chelsea’s crowded midfield.

As the transfer window unfolds, interested clubs will be closely watching developments, with Chukwuemeka potentially finding a new home where he can secure the regular playing time he needs.