“It’s so Frustrating that we have let so many good players leave our club. Now they are doing better than the players we have currently in their respective clubs. Their departure has really affected our defense” – Joe Cole has voiced his disappointment over Chelsea’s decision to let go of a key player, describing the move as a mistake the club should never have made. The former Blues midfielder didn’t hold back as he discussed the impact of the player’s departure, emphasizing the frustration it caused among fans and pundits alike.

Joe Cole Criticizes Chelsea for Selling Marc Guehi, Now Linked with a Return

Joe Cole has expressed his frustration over Chelsea’s decision to part ways with Marc Guehi, a player the club is reportedly trying to re-sign during the January transfer window.

Guehi, who joined Chelsea’s academy at the age of seven, signed his first professional contract in 2017. However, his time with the senior team was brief, making just two appearances before being loaned to Swansea City for two seasons. In 2021, Crystal Palace acquired the center-back for £18 million, and Guehi quickly became a key player, amassing over 100 appearances for the Eagles.

His impressive performances earned him an England call-up in 2022, and he was one of the standout players during England’s run to the Euro 2024 final. Now 24, Guehi has attracted interest from top clubs, including Manchester United, Liverpool, and Chelsea, who are keen to bring him back to Stamford Bridge to address defensive issues amidst injuries to Wesley Fofana and Benoît Badiashile.

Cole believes Chelsea’s defensive struggles could have been avoided had they kept Guehi. Speaking to Paddy Power, he said:
“Central defense is a priority for Chelsea. Benoît Badiashile has been dealing with injuries, and although Wesley Fofana has been fantastic, he’s been plagued by setbacks. Levi Colwill is promising but still developing.

“It’s frustrating because they sold Marc Guehi, who has become a top center-back. He’s now a regular in England’s starting lineup, and Chelsea will have to spend big to bring him back. This kind of situation happens far too often at the club.

“Guehi is as good as any center-half outside of Manchester City and Arsenal and will only improve. If Chelsea need reinforcements, bringing him back makes sense, but it’s frustrating that they’re in this position.”

Chelsea’s struggles continued with a 1-1 draw against Guehi’s Crystal Palace, extending their winless run since December 22. Critics, including Clinton Morrison, have highlighted the team’s lack of attacking efficiency, pointing to their reliance on players like Cole Palmer while struggling to convert chances into goals.

Chelsea will aim to regain momentum in the FA Cup third round against League Two side Morecambe this Saturday.