Chelsea teenager Josh Acheampong is in “a bad situation” according to Enzo Maresca, as the head coach cast doubt on whether the academy graduate is being properly advised over his contract stand-off with the club.
The 18-year-old has reportedly been told he will not be selected either for the first team or for age-group sides until he signs a new deal.
It is understood that Chelsea bosses believed a new contract had been verbally agreed upon with Acheampong prior to him stalling, leading to what is in effect an ultimatum over his future.
He has not travelled with the squad that arrived in Athens on Wednesday ahead of the team’s Conference League meeting with Panathinaikos.
“I feel a shame for Josh,” said Maresca.
“This kind of game could be an opportunity for him. I had a chat with him personally about three weeks ago about his situation. The chat we had was very positive.
“It’s a shame because I really think Josh potentially can be a top player. He’s still 18, so many things can change for him, but potentially he can be very important for Chelsea.
“It’s so important for the club that our intention is not to lose him. The first thing we need to do is find a solution about his contract, his future.
“It’s a bad situation in this moment for him. I don’t know if the people who are trying to solve the problem are helping him or not.”
A trip to Greece for Panathinaikos (A). ✈️
soccer
UEFA Conference League
Chelsea
Enzo Maresca