Chelsea may need to wait months for £80m man to reach his potential again | OneFootball

Chelsea are in a much better position than last season and have already got more points on the board in the Premier League.

A key factor going in their favour compared to a year ago is the injury situation. Reece James is the only long-term absentee at the moment, and even he’s expected to be back in the next month or so. That’s a vast change from a year ago, when the team was constantly stretched to its limits by injuries.

One of those players missing was Wesley Fofana, who missed the best part of a second consecutive season injured. It’s been a long road back, but he’s been playing consistently through preseason and in the league so far, and is established as Enzo Maresca’s preferred central defender alongside Levi Colwill.

Fabrizio Romano has spoken about Fofana’s thoughts and feelings a few times, implying he’s got a good connection on the inside with the Frenchman.

Romano reports on defender’s desires

“Wesley Fofana feels fans have only seen 10-20% of his real potential,” Romano said.

“He feels it will take time after the injury, but he wants to be part of the project. He wants to repay Chelsea.”

After some dodgy moments in preseason, we feel like we’re seeing weekly improvements from Fofana as he gets back up to speed. We still think there’s a long way to go before he’s at his imperious best – and he may never get there – but as long as he’s moving in the right direction that’s what matters.

We’re not surprised he feels a little indebted after spending two years out watching his teammates struggle. Fingers crossed the injuries are over and this can be a really productive season both for Fofana and the whole team. But let’s not rush things – it could be months before Fofana really feels fully comfortably and back to 80 or 90%.