Enzo Maresca has now made ‘clear’ decision on £35m Chelsea player’s future

Chelsea is expected to offload several players before the September transfer deadline, with Joao Felix, Raheem Sterling, and Ben Chilwell among those listed as unwanted. While Felix is reportedly open to rejoining Benfica, no deal has been agreed upon with Chelsea yet.

In contrast to potential departures, defender Benoit Badiashile appears certain to stay at Chelsea. Despite making only five Premier League appearances last season due to injuries and being behind Levi Colwill and Wesley Fofana in the pecking order, new manager Enzo Maresca has explicitly stated that the 24-year-old Frenchman remains part of his plans for the upcoming season.

Previous links to signing new centre-backs, such as Jorrel Hato, have quieted down. This decision means Badiashile will stay and compete with Colwill, Fofana, Trevoh Chalobah, and Tosin Adarabioyo for a starting position. Maresca has communicated his desire for Badiashile to remain, and the player himself confirmed his intention to stay.

Badiashile directly stated to Foot Mercato: "Yes, I will still be at Chelsea next season. The club, the coach, and all the staff give me a lot of confidence and believe in me. I will do everything to give back to them on the pitch. I love the club, the city, and the supporters."

Although Chelsea signed him from AS Monaco for £35m in 2023 and his lack of playing time might make it difficult to sell him for a profit in the future, Badiashile is set to remain at Stamford Bridge for the immediate future.