In an effort to follow their new policy, Chelsea is apparently going to give defender Ian Maatsen a deadline, indicating that he needs to commit to a new deal or think about leaving the team. This development was made public by journalist Ben Jacobs, who emphasized Chelsea’s position on the issue.
Maatsen’s current contract was recently extended by 12 months by Chelsea through the exercise of a one-year option. The left-back can still choose to leave Stamford Bridge as a free agent in 2025, notwithstanding this move. Chelsea seems determined to prevent this from happening.
According to Jacobs, Maatsen must sign a long-term contract with Chelsea or become a free agent in 2024, per Chelsea rules. The club does not intend to let the matter drag on all year long without a definitive conclusion.
Although a January exit is a possibility, it is not a given because Chelsea’s extension is thought to be a way to buy the team more time. Maatsen will have difficulty obtaining a new contract because he is currently Chelsea’s fourth-choice left-back and has not started a Premier League game this year.
Maatsen’s chances are limited since a number of other players, such as Levi Colwill, Ben Chilwell, and Marc Cucurella, have been given starting opportunities. The 21-year-old has not made an impact despite his few substitute appearances. In a recent game against Brentford, he was criticized for his lack of strength and for being easily defeated at a crucial moment that resulted in a goal.
Maatsen’s point is that he needs more regular playing time to establish himself and create a rhythm, but with manager Mauricio Pochettino’s present roster of choices, it will be difficult to provide him significant minutes. Maatsen’s future with the team is now dependent on his choice over a new contract because it seems like Chelsea is sticking to its stance.
