Enzo Maresca’s Chelsea have dropped plans of signing a new left-back following Marc Cucurella’s impressive performances.
Chelsea were keen on signing a new left-back during the summer. Unfortunately, things did not go according to plan for them as they were forced to work with what they had. While the idea was to push for a new left-sided full-back once the transfer window reopened, their plans have drastically changed over the last six months. Marc Cucurella, who has been the go-to man at left-back, has managed to impress new boss Enzo Maresca.
According to a report from Graeme Bailey on TBR Football, the West London club have decided to drop their plans of signing a new left-back in January. The Blues were actively pushing to sign a new left-back in the summer, with Milos Kerkez quite high on their wishlist.
Meanwhile, Chelsea were ready to sanction the departure of Ben Chilwell, who remains out of favour. The West London club failed to land the Bournemouth defender, and Maresca was forced to work with the options he had.
Cucurella forces his way into Maresca’s plans
Marc Cucurella, who had an exceptional summer with the Spanish national team that ended up winning the UEFA Euro 2024 title, was not considered an ideal fit for the Italian manager’s style of play. But, it seems the former Brighton & Hove Albion star has played his way into the plans of Maresca.
The Spaniard has won over the former Leicester City boss and has made the left-back slot his own. He might not have contributed towards a goal in his 12 outings. However, he has been a standout performer for them, and it has forced Maresca to change his transfer plans.
The Italian tactician no longer considers signing a new left-back one of the priorities. He is happy to have Cucurella as his first choice in the short-term, with summer signing Renato Veiga a more than capable cover.
Chelsea are still looking to part ways with Chilwell, but they won’t be bringing in a replacement. The Blues will focus on bolstering other positions on the pitch thanks to the 26-year-old Spanish international’s consistent performances.
