Chelsea shock: Enzo Maresca tells Ben Chilwell to find a new club

In a surprising turn of events, Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has urged vice-captain Ben Chilwell to leave the club before the transfer window closes.

The 27-year-old left-back has struggled to secure playing time in a competitive Chelsea squad, with Marc Cucurella now favored in his position.

Chilwell, who has only managed 64 minutes of play across six pre-season games, missed the final three matches due to illness.

During a press conference on Friday, Maresca made it clear that Chilwell’s future at Stamford Bridge is uncertain. "Chilly has not been training for the last few days because he has been ill," Maresca said.

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Enzo Maresca blunt message to Chilwell

Maresca didn’t hold back in expressing his concerns. "I love the way he is, but the problem is that he struggles with us a little bit to find his best position," the Chelsea boss stated.

With a squad of 22 players all vying for a spot in the starting eleven, Maresca hinted that Chilwell might be better off seeking regular playing time elsewhere.

"When they train every day and do not get any minutes, it is not good for them or for me," Maresca added. "It is probably better to leave and get minutes (elsewhere). The transfer window is open so we'll see what happens."

As the clock ticks down on the transfer window, Chilwell faces a crucial decision regarding his future. With limited opportunities at Chelsea, the left-back may need to find a new club to revive his career.