Chelsea is reportedly preparing to deliver a decisive message to their defender, Ian Maatsen, as they seek to enforce a new policy. This policy stipulates that Maatsen must make a choice between committing to a new contract or contemplating a departure from the club. Journalist Ben Jacobs has brought this development to light, underlining Chelsea’s unwavering stance on the matter.
Recently, Chelsea extended Maatsen’s current contract by an additional 12 months by exercising a one-year option in his existing deal. Nonetheless, this move still leaves the left-back with the possibility of leaving Stamford Bridge as a free agent in 2025. Chelsea is determined to prevent such an outcome.
According to Jacobs, Chelsea’s policy demands that Maatsen either agrees to a long-term contract or becomes available for transfer in 2024. The club is not willing to allow the situation to linger unresolved throughout the year.
While the prospect of a January departure has been suggested, it is not guaranteed, as the extension secured by Chelsea is perceived as a tactic to buy the club more time. Maatsen is facing challenges in securing a new contract, primarily because he has not been given the opportunity to start a Premier League game this season. He currently stands as the fourth choice in the left-back position at Chelsea.
Several other players, such as Levi Colwill, Ben Chilwell, and Marc Cucurella, have been granted starting opportunities, leaving Maatsen with limited prospects. Despite sporadic appearances as a substitute, he has struggled to make a breakthrough. In a recent match against Brentford, he faced criticism for his lack of strength and vulnerability during a critical moment that resulted in a goal.
The argument in favor of Maatsen is that he needs more consistent playing time to make an impact and find his rhythm. However, given the current array of options available to manager Mauricio Pochettino, providing significant minutes is proving to be a challenge. Chelsea’s policy seems to be firmly in place, creating a situation where Maatsen’s future with the club hinges on his decision regarding a new contract.
In essence, Chelsea is sending a clear message to Ian Maatsen: commit to a new contract or prepare to leave the club. The recent contract extension, while offering a one-year reprieve, does not change the fundamental stance of the club. Maatsen’s limited playing time and competition from other left-backs have made securing a new contract a challenging endeavor. Chelsea’s unwavering policy indicates that they are not willing to let this situation linger without a definitive resolution.
