Athletic: Why Chelsea won’t sign a Colwill replacement despite Maresca’s demands | OneFootball

When Mauricio Pochettino was removed as Chelsea manager at the start of last summer, there was a strong sense that that decision was made in part because he wanted too much autonomy. The sporting directors and owners wanted a coach who would be obedient, manage in the way they wanted, and not rock the boat.

Enzo Maresca was the chosen man, and so far he’s complied with all of their wishes. He’s not made a fuss or objected to decisions from above. As the only one from the sporting structure who regularly speaks to the press, he ends up defending a lot of decisions made by those above him.

First cracks between Maresca and sporting directors

But we finally may have a small crack appearing. Speaking before the Crystal Palace game at the weekend, Maresca made it clear that he would like a new central defender signed to replace Levi Colwill, who is out for the season.

That’s reasonable – but it does go against what the club seem to want. All the briefs, whether coming from Fabrizio Romano or through the well sourced writers at the Athletic, claim that the Blues are content with what they have and don’t want to bring in another body.

Chelsea don’t think there’s a Colwill replacement on the market

Levi Colwill celebrates the Club World Cup win. (Photo by Chip Somodevilla/Getty Images)

The Athletic’s Deal Sheet today went into more detail about their plans.

“Chelsea are not inclined to sign a new centre-back in this window… and one key reason is that they do not see a Colwill replacement out there,” the piece claims.

“Chelsea are confident in their depth, including in defence. Colwill’s injury is unquestionably a blow, but there is also full faith in Maresca’s ability to find a solution.”

When Benoit Badiashile and Tosin Adarabioyo are back from their injuries there will certainly be more depth. But with Colwill out, this team is unquestionably weaker than it was, and that’s where the tension comes from.