Marc Cucurella has made some interesting comments about Chelsea’s transfer policy.
Following the Blues’ 8-2 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain in the Champions League last 16, the club’s recruitment has come under real scrutiny.
Cucurella has now weighed in, agreeing with Chelsea’s critics. If the team had more experienced players over the two legs, the defender thinks the outcome could have been a very different one.
SEMI-FINAL 1: Frank Lampard vs Cesc Fabregas
Frank Lampard and Cesc Fabregas
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Marc Cucurella tells Chelsea owners they need to sign more experienced players
While Cucurella understands what Chelsea are trying to do by signing all of these young players, he has warned the club’s owners and sporting directors that there needs to be a balance.
In an interview with The Athletic, the left-back said: “I understand this is part of the club’s policy, and that they want to take this direction — signing young players and looking to the future. But, for all of us who are still here and want to win big things, moments like this [PSG defeat] make you feel discouraged.
“We have a good core of players. The foundations are there. But to fight for major trophies such as the Premier League or the Champions League, you need more. Signing young players only might complicate achieving those goals. Against PSG, we lacked players that had gone through situations like that.
“You need time as well, and I know the young players are the ones that will have the experience in the future. But you need to find the balance between both worlds.”
Chelsea co-owners Behdad Eghbali and Todd Boehly
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There is nothing to suggest that Chelsea are going to change their transfer policy despite what happened in the Champions League.
They have a plan and clearly want to stick to it, but it could have ramifications. The team have just not been able to compete in the Premier League, and that is unlikely to change until more experience is added to the squad.
Chelsea are already at risk of missing out on the top five this season, with Liam Rosenior’s men currently sitting in sixth place in the Premier League table.
Cucurella has not ruled out a move to Barcelona in the future. If things do not improve, it would not be a shock to see the Spaniard and others depart.
Two experienced players Chelsea should consider signing this summer
It seems unlikely, but if Chelsea do go down the experience route this summer, there are some great options on the market.
For example, Bayern Munich’s Leon Goretzka is set to be available on a free transfer. The German is 31 now and is an excellent midfielder.
Goretzka is a really powerful footballer, able to run from box to box and pop up with goals. Goretzka could be a smart signing for Chelsea, especially if Enzo Fernandez leaves.
Nathan Ake is said to be redeveloping his mansion near Cobham. The former Chelsea defender could also be available with his contract expiring next year and would improve the team’s backline.
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