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.”

Maresca stated, “Carney won’t be included in today’s game; he is a good player but we have so many midfield players that he will struggle for minutes.”

Chukwuemeka joined Chelsea from Aston Villa in 2022 but has found first-team opportunities limited, making only a handful of appearances this season.

Maresca has previously expressed a desire for Chukwuemeka to gain regular playing time elsewhere, suggesting that a loan move would be beneficial for his development. In September 2024, Maresca commented, “I really, really like Carney. The problem is that we have so many attacking midfielders that he is going to struggle to find space.”

Several clubs have shown interest in Chukwuemeka. West Ham United, currently seeking to bolster their midfield options, have been linked with both Chukwuemeka and fellow Chelsea midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall.

Reports suggest that West Ham is considering loan deals for the duo to strengthen their squad amid a challenging Premier League campaign.

Additionally, European clubs have expressed interest in Chukwuemeka. Italian side Torino reportedly targeted him during the summer transfer window, although a move did not materialize. Chelsea is open to offers for Chukwuemeka, with a potential transfer fee around £40 million being discussed.

Maresca’s recent comments underscore the competitive nature of Chelsea’s midfield, which includes players like Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez, and Romeo Lavia.

This depth has limited Chukwuemeka’s opportunities, making a January move increasingly likely. Maresca noted, “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.”

As the January transfer window progresses, Chukwuemeka’s situation will be closely monitored by clubs seeking midfield reinforcements. A move could provide him with the regular playing time necessary to continue his development and fulfill the potential that prompted Chelsea to secure his services from Aston Villa.