Chelsea youngster is not allowed to play until he signs a new contract

Josh Acheampong is currently facing a challenging situation due to ongoing contract negotiations. The 18-year-old Cobham Academy graduate will be left out of both the first team and development squad until he agrees a new contract, leaving his future at Stamford Bridge uncertain.

Acheampong has been informed that he will not play for any Chelsea team until he has signed 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 and stated: “It’s a shame Josh is missing out on valuable playing timeMaresca revealed that he had a positive conversation with Acheampong about his future three weeks ago but has not spoken to him since.

The young defender made his professional debut last season under former coach Mauricio Pochettino and was part of Chelsea’s pre-season tour in the US. However, he has made limited appearances this season, with just a brief 27-minute appearance in the Carabao Cup win over Barrow. His absence is particularly notable as Chelsea look to secure his long-term future at the club.

Acheampong’s hesitation to commit to a new contract could be due to concerns about his path to regular professional football. Despite being considered a potential future star for Chelsea, he was overlooked even when experienced right-backs Reece James and Malo Gusto were ruled out through injury. Instead, Maresca decided to use central defenders 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 towards academy graduates in contract negotiations. Players such as Mason Mount and Conor Gallagher have faced similar pressure to extend their contracts or risk being sidelined.

Acheampong’s predicament has not gone unnoticed by other clubs. Big teams like Liverpool and Real Madrid are reportedly keeping a close eye on developments.

As Chelsea prepare for their upcoming Europa Conference League clash against Panathinaikos, Maresca admitted that these games could have provided Acheampong with valuable opportunities to further develop and showcase his skills. The head coach also questioned whether those advising Acheampong are truly acting in his best interests.

Chelsea remain optimistic of reaching agreement with Acheampong; However, the longer the stalemate continues, the more the club may need to consider alternative options. The Blues are keen to retain one of their most promising prospects but need to manage this contract dispute while ensuring they keep him at Stamford Bridge for the foreseeable future.