Chelsea’s youth star Josh Acheampong’s playing future hangs in the balance, with the club blocking his appearances at any level until a new contract is signed. The 18-year-old’s current deal expires in 2026, but it seems the Blues are unwilling to allow him to play even for the youth team until his future is secured.
Acheampong’s talent has not gone unnoticed, with Real Madrid reportedly interested in signing him. However, it appears that Chelsea are not willing to take any risks, fearing that he may leave the club without a new deal. This decision has left fans of the club feeling disappointed, with Chelsea legend Enzo Maresca expressing his frustration over the situation.
Maresca, who has previously coached Acheampong, described the young player as “a shame” and emphasized the importance of giving youthful players minutes on the pitch. “It’s so important for the club that our intention is not to lose him. The first thing we need to do is to find a solution for his future,” he said.
Acheampong’s exclusion from the recent matchday squad to face Panathinaikos in the Conference League has raised further concerns about his future at the club. In his place, Chelsea have called up players such as Tyrique George, Sam Rak-Sakyi, and Shumaira Mheuka, also known as Shim.
Maresca has praised these young players, stating that they have been with the team for different sessions and are ready for a good experience. He expressed his eagerness to give them minutes and chances to grow, which suggests that Acheampong’s situation may be a serious setback.
The story of Acheampong’s blocked contract extension has raised questions about Chelsea’s handling of young players. Is the club prioritizing their own interests over the development of its youth? As Acheampong’s talent and potential continue to grow, Chelsea must find a way to balance their business interests with their commitment to nurturing young talent. The situation is a complex one, and only time will tell how it will play out. One thing is certain, however, and that is that Acheampong’s future at Chelsea remains uncertain.
