Full Breakdown
Chelsea's Axel Disasi: Current Status and Future Prospects
11/22/2025, 7:41:06 PM
Clarification on Disasi's Role at Chelsea
Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has addressed the situation of defender Axel Disasi, who recently returned to first-team training during the November international break. Despite this development, Maresca emphasized that Disasi remains primarily a "second team player." Since January, Disasi has seen a significant drop in his standing within the squad, having been loaned to Aston Villa for the latter half of the 2024-25 season and failing to secure a transfer during the summer window. He has not made a competitive senior appearance this season.
Maresca explained that Disasi's participation in first-team training was a temporary measure due to a lack of available players. "Axel is helping the second team, he's helping the younger players," Maresca stated. He noted that with only five or six players present during the international break, Disasi was included in a training session with the first team, but this was not indicative of a permanent reintegration.
Future Opportunities and January Transfer Window
Looking ahead, Maresca acknowledged that while Disasi's return to the first team cannot be entirely ruled out, the most realistic opportunity for him to play could be in the EFL Cup quarter-final against Cardiff City in mid-December. This match could allow Chelsea to rotate their central defenders, providing Disasi with valuable playing time ahead of the January transfer window. The coach indicated that finding a new club for Disasi would be beneficial for all parties involved.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite Maresca's reassurances, there are concerns regarding Disasi's future at Chelsea. Critics argue that the lack of opportunities for the defender reflects poorly on the club's management and their handling of player contracts. Disasi's situation has drawn attention, especially given that he has been training with the academy players for much of the season, which some view as a waste of his potential.
Official Statements & Responses
In a recent press conference, Maresca reiterated his stance on Disasi's role: "At the moment, he's helping the second team, working with the second team, and is there with the second team." This statement underscores the coach's commitment to utilizing Disasi primarily in a supporting role for the younger players.
What's Next for Disasi?
As Chelsea prepares for a busy schedule of matches leading up to the end of the year, the club's management will need to assess Disasi's situation closely. The upcoming EFL Cup match could serve as a pivotal moment for the defender, potentially influencing his prospects for a transfer in January.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Axel is helping the second team, he’s helping the younger players.” — Enzo Maresca, Chelsea Head Coach
- “At the moment he's helping second team, he's working with second team and he's there with second team.” — Enzo Maresca, Chelsea Head Coach
In summary, while Axel Disasi's recent return to training has sparked speculation about his future at Chelsea, Enzo Maresca's comments suggest that the defender's primary focus will remain on supporting the second team as the January transfer window approaches.
