The best plan is to stay - Maresca confirms one defender that is key to Chelsea's future
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Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca (Credit: Chelsea FC)

The best plan is to stay - Maresca confirms one defender that is key to Chelsea's future

Hassan Abdulsalam 16:27 - 28.06.2025

Maresca has confirmed that Acheampong is key to Chelsea’s future

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has unequivocally dismissed speculation surrounding the immediate departure of highly-rated teenage defender Josh Acheampong.

Despite a surge of interest from clubs across England and Europe, the Stamford Bridge hierarchy, backed by Maresca, has made it clear that the 19-year-old is remaining with the Blues.

Enzo Maresca, Chelsea manager || Imago
Enzo Maresca, Chelsea manager || Imago Enzo Maresca, Chelsea manager || Imago

The promising defender cemented his future with Chelsea last year by signing a five-year contract until June 2029.

The only scenario under consideration for a temporary move would be a loan deal, and even that would only proceed if mutually agreed upon by both the player and the club as the optimal step for his ongoing development.

What Maresca said

Addressing the swirling rumours, Maresca acknowledged the widespread interest in Acheampong but quickly reiterated Chelsea's equal investment in his future.

He said, "The clubs that you mentioned, they like Josh, but we also like Josh. Any club likes good players. My plan with Josh is quite clear. I said many times that I really like Josh.

“I think he potentially can be a top defender for this club. It’s on him to have the right timing to do things. We are full of young players here, full of talented players, even defenders. So I think the best plan for Josh is to be with us, and I’m very happy if he’s going to be with us."

Maresca's arrival at Stamford Bridge has been characterised by a clear strategic emphasis on investing in and nurturing young talent from the club's renowned academy.