Josh Acheampong, is currently facing a challenging situation due to ongoing contract negotiations. The 18-year-old Cobham academy graduate finds himself sidelined from both the first team and development squad until he agrees to a new deal, leaving his future at Stamford Bridge uncertain.
Acheampong has been informed that he will not be featuring for any Chelsea team until he puts pen to paper on a new contract. Despite his potential and previous contributions, this decision has left him watching from the sidelines.
Head coach Enzo Maresca expressed his disappointment, stating, "It's a shame that Josh is missing out on valuable playing time." Maresca revealed that he had a positive discussion with Acheampong about his future three weeks ago but has not spoken with him since.
The young defender made his professional debut under former manager Mauricio Pochettino last season and was part of Chelsea's pre-season tour in the USA. However, he has seen limited action this season, with only a brief 27-minute appearance in a Carabao Cup victory over Barrow. His absence is particularly notable as Chelsea aims to secure his long-term future at the club.
Pathway concerns and external interest
Acheampong's hesitation to commit to a new deal may stem from concerns about his path to regular first-team football. Although he is considered a potential future star for Chelsea, he was overlooked even when senior right-backs Reece James and Malo Gusto were sidelined with injuries. Instead, Maresca opted to deploy centre-backs Axel Disasi and Wesley Fofana in the right-back position.
This situation is not unprecedented at Chelsea, as the club has previously taken a firm stance with academy graduates during contract negotiations. Players such as Mason Mount and Conor Gallagher faced similar pressures to extend their contracts or risk being sidelined.
Acheampong's predicament has not gone unnoticed by other clubs, with reports suggesting that major teams like Liverpool and Real Madrid are keeping a close eye on developments.
Crucial moment for club and player
As Chelsea prepares for their upcoming Europa Conference League clash against Panathinaikos, Maresca acknowledged that these matches could have offered Acheampong valuable opportunities to develop and showcase his abilities. The head coach also raised questions about whether those advising Acheampong are truly acting in his best interests.
Chelsea remains optimistic about reaching an agreement with Acheampong; however, the longer the deadlock persists, the more the club may need to consider alternative options. The Blues are eager to retain one of their most promising prospects but must navigate this contract dispute while ensuring they keep him at Stamford Bridge for the foreseeable future.