Chelsea fans are rallying behind Ian Maatsen following his standout performance for Borussia Dortmund in the Champions League, urging the club not to sell him. Maatsen, who is currently on loan at Dortmund, scored his first-ever goal to help his team secure a 4-2 victory against Atletico Madrid in the second leg of their Champions League tie, propelling them to the semi-finals.
The 22-year-old left-back joined Dortmund on loan during the January transfer window and is expected to remain with the German side until the end of the season. Dortmund is reportedly keen on making his loan deal permanent, further fueling the desire of Chelsea supporters to see him return to Stamford Bridge.
Maatsen’s loan spell follows a successful stint at Burnley during the 2022–2023 season, where he impressed and even earned a nomination in the second-tier Team of the Season. Despite his achievements, Chelsea previously attempted to sell him, accepting a £31.5 million offer from Burnley in the summer.
However, Maatsen opted against a permanent move to Turf Moor, hoping to make an impression on Chelsea’s manager, Mauricio Pochettino, and secure a place in the starting lineup. Despite his efforts, his lack of playing time at Stamford Bridge led to interest from Barcelona, with rumors of a potential January sale.
Chelsea fans, witnessing Maatsen’s success in the Champions League, are now pleading for the club to retain him. On social media platforms like Twitter, supporters have expressed their frustration at the prospect of Maatsen being sold, especially considering his recent performances.
Messages such as “What a goal, Ian Maatsen. Don’t sell him, @ChelseaFC,” and “Chelsea are planning to sell Ian Maatsen to Borussia Dortmund for £35 million while we’re screaming out for a player like him,” highlight the sentiment among fans. Others have praised Maatsen’s talent, with one fan noting, “Maatsen is into the semi-finals as a starting LB in the tournament we can’t get into. Skill speaks volumes.”
Despite his lack of opportunities at Chelsea, Maatsen’s success abroad has only intensified the desire of supporters to see him back in a Chelsea shirt. With his loan spell at Dortmund showcasing his potential, fans hope that the club’s management will reconsider their stance and give Maatsen the chance to shine at Stamford Bridge.
