Chelsea midfielder Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall, who joined the club for £30m in the summer, may be sold in January due to a dispute over his playing time. Dewsbury-Hall impressed in Chelsea’s 5-1 victory over Shamrock Rovers on Thursday, scoring his second goal for the club with a well-taken strike.
However, despite his contributions in cup competitions, the midfielder has yet to start a Premier League game this season. Most of his 15 appearances have been in the Conference League and Carabao Cup, leaving him frustrated with his lack of top-flight opportunities.
Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, who previously managed Dewsbury-Hall at Leicester City, played a pivotal role in the midfielder’s development. While Maresca remains impressed with Dewsbury-Hall’s work ethic and performances, stiff competition in the squad has forced him to be a fringe player, making only five substitute appearances in the top-flight.
When asked about Dewsbury-Hall’s future, Maresca hinted at the possibility of a January departure. “Unfortunately, I cannot say that about Kiernan or about all of the squad because when the window is open, anything can happen,” he told reporters. “The only thing I can say about Kiernan is that we are very happy with the way he is working and his performances.”
Maresca emphasized that the decision ultimately rests with Dewsbury-Hall and the club. “We don’t want one of our players to leave,” he explained. “The problem is sometimes the question is more for them. If they say ‘You don’t want me to leave but I am not happy and want to play more’, in that case, we are not going to say ‘No, you have to stay’. It’s a matter of an agreement between the club and the player.”
Chelsea are set to face Everton in the Premier League on Sunday, and Dewsbury-Hall’s involvement – or lack thereof – could provide further insight into his standing within the squad. With January approaching and the transfer window opening soon, it remains to be seen whether Dewsbury-Hall will continue to fight for his place or seek a fresh start elsewhere.
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