A key Chelsea player is already contemplating an exit this summer, and Enzo Maresca faces a significant challenge to convince him to stay.

Chelsea’s recent dip in form has seen them slip out of the Premier League’s top four, significantly damaging their chances of securing a Champions League spot—a stark contrast to their promising position just a few weeks ago.

 

Throughout the season, manager Enzo Maresca has tempered expectations, even when Chelsea were briefly considered title contenders alongside Liverpool in December. Despite the team’s struggles, reports suggest the club’s ownership remains supportive of the Italian coach. However, former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has voiced his belief that if Roman Abramovich were still in charge, Maresca would have already been dismissed.

 

The squad has faced increasing scrutiny from fans and pundits alike, with some players—such as Jadon Sancho—failing to meet expectations. While Chelsea have invested heavily in building a competitive team for the future, many of these top-level players are eager to compete in the Champions League.

 

Sources indicate that frustration is growing within the squad. Some players are dissatisfied with limited playing time and are considering exits, while others are becoming restless due to poor results. If Chelsea fail to secure a Champions League spot by the season’s end, key players may push for transfers. One high-profile star is already evaluating his future at the club, though his identity remains undisclosed.

 

Beyond squad morale, Maresca faces another major challenge—Chelsea’s lack of a fit, first-choice striker. Nicolas Jackson is sidelined until April, and promising young forward Marc Guiu is also unavailable for the next few weeks. This has forced Maresca to utilize Christopher Nkunku as the main striker, but his performances in the role have been underwhelming.

 

With attacking options limited, Maresca may need to turn to Chelsea’s academy for reinforcements. Donnell McNeilly, who has had an outstanding goalscoring season, could be the solution to Chelsea’s striker dilemma.