Chelsea FC salvage John Terry situation expertly
Chelsea FC officials have done an expert job in salvaging the crisis surrounding John Terry and his contract extension to stay at Stamford Bridge.
The decision is firmly in John Terry’s court. Chelsea FC announced on Friday that they had finally tendered a one-year contract extension to the club captain. With that, the Blues officials have done an expert job in placating the fans while also getting what they want out of the situation.
Taking to Instagram shortly after the news was made public, Terry stated that the club had offered to keep him, but in a ‘different role’.
It is reasonably clear that the Stamford Bridge brass are not overly keen on having Terry take a spot in next season’s playing squad. It is yet unclear what this alternative role is, but it is safe to assume that it would see Terry in the background.
The club captain has been with Chelsea since he was fourteen years of age. As a result, the footballing world was in uproar when he revealed that management had not offered him an extension. There was little to indicate that one was forthcoming and thus this news has come as a surprise.
According to reports, the offer was made on Wednesday after a meeting involving the player, his agent and key officials such as Marina Granovskaia. Evidently, the terms of the deal are striking enough that Terry needs to consider it. He has repeatedly stated his desire to stay at Stamford Bridge, but the capacity which he is being asked to be fulfilled is testing his commitment.
The Blues brass have essentially turned this situation on its head. They have made clear that they are willing to keep Terry in West London and whether he stays or not is now down to the player himself.
The majority of fans are calling upon the defender to sign the contract (although POL Staff Writer Brendan McDonnell believes otherwise). If he opts to pass on the opportunity, it has nothing to do with a lack of cooperation from management.
The key is that very few would argue that Terry should be maintained as a regular first-team player. The idea behind the Englishman staying is for him to assist Antonio Conte as he takes over and act as a dressing room leader. Furthermore, with the abundance of young talent, defensive or otherwise, the veteran would impart his wisdom as they are bled into the senior squad.
The club have probably ensured that the contract involves him being an active player, but in a backup role. If they wanted Terry solely as a coach, Chelsea would have offered him a deal that lasted longer than one-year.
Granovskaia, Michael Emenalo and their friends have expertly salvaged what was an ugly situation. Announcing this before the club’s final game against Leicester City is also a smart ploy that should negate the planned protests.
Next: Antonio Conte: the perfect path forward for Chelsea FC
The offer is there. If Terry is not at Stamford Bridge next season, the fans will only be able to blame him.