Chelsea have endured a disappointing season but when the squad return for pre-season they are set to have a champion among their ranks. While few have lit up Stamford Bridge this season Ian Maatsen was a star at Turf Moor as he helped Burnley to win the Championship and earned a place in the division's team of the season.
Having impressed on loan at Charlton in League One and Coventry in the Championship ahead of winning the title with the Clarets and produced four goals and six assists in 2022/23, the next logical step for Maatsen is the Premier League. The question quickly arises: will that be with Chelsea?
In many ways seeing Marc Cucurella arrive last summer to play on the left of a back three and to provide support to Ben Chilwell, would make it seem difficult to convince Maatsen of a clear pathway. The Spaniard's form has been sharply compared to that of Maatsen since his arrival for in excess of £60million, perhaps making any decision to overlook Maatsen now one that will be contested.
