Tosin Adarabioyo’s Chelsea future has come under renewed scrutiny after the defender was left out of the squad for the club’s final pre-season fixture against Real Sociedad.
The omission has added weight to reports that new head coach Xabi Alonso is prepared to sanction the centre-back’s departure, with Chelsea continuing to work on reducing an unusually crowded defensive group before the transfer window closes. Adarabioyo was among several notable absentees as Chelsea completed their pre-season with a 3-1 victory over Real Sociedad.
The 28-year-old joined Chelsea on a free transfer from Fulham in 2024, signing a four-year contract after establishing himself as a reliable Premier League defender. He brought experience, physical strength and aerial ability to a Chelsea squad dominated by younger players.
However, the competition for places has become increasingly intense.
Chelsea have a sizeable collection of centre-backs, with Levi Colwill, Wesley Fofana, Maxence Lacroix, Jorrel Hato and Josh Acheampong among the players competing for defensive roles. Other defenders, including Benoît Badiashile and Axel Disasi, have also been linked with departures as Alonso attempts to streamline his squad.
Reports earlier in the summer suggested Alonso was keen to keep Adarabioyo, particularly because of his experience and leadership qualities. That position now appears to have changed, with a potential move to Benfica and interest from other clubs emerging.
Opinion: Why has Alonso decided to let him leave?
Alonso has inherited a squad that needs trimming, and centre-back is arguably the clearest area where CHELSEA have too many options. Keeping every defender happy is impossible, while players need regular football to remain sharp.
Adarabioyo also turns 29 in September, meaning Chelsea may see this as the right moment to cash in rather than risk his value declining while younger defenders are given greater responsibility.
There is also a tactical argument. Alonso’s preference for a back three places enormous importance on defenders being comfortable progressing the ball and covering large spaces. While Adarabioyo possesses useful technical qualities, the new manager may simply believe other centre-backs offer a better fit for his system.
That does not necessarily make Adarabioyo a poor player. It could simply mean CHELSEA are making a ruthless squad-building decision.
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