Danny Murphy has criticized Chelsea’s decision to let seasoned players like Thiago Silva, Jorginho, and Mateo Kovacic leave, calling the move “strange.”
Despite spending over £1.5 billion since Todd Boehly’s takeover in 2022, Chelsea have failed to climb higher than sixth in the Premier League. Their last major trophy came in 2021 when they lifted the Champions League under Thomas Tuchel.
This season, Chelsea’s struggles have continued, with the club dropping to fifth. Discontent among fans grew louder after Tuesday night’s protest outside Stamford Bridge, where chants like “We want our Chelsea back” and vulgar messages aimed at Boehly could be heard. Some supporters even expressed longing for the Roman Abramovich era.
Murphy, speaking on talkSPORT, questioned Chelsea’s strategy of prioritizing young talent over experienced players. “Maresca isn’t doing the recruitment—it’s others making these calls,” Murphy said. “They’ve taken a unique approach, spending big on potential while offloading key veterans like Silva, Jorginho, and Kovacic.
Look at Kovacic he left and won the league with City, playing almost every game. It just doesn’t make sense.” Silva left last summer for Fluminense, while Jorginho and Kovacic moved on in 2023, securing success at Arsenal and Manchester City, respectively.
With their exits, Chelsea’s squad lost crucial experience, making them the youngest Premier League team this season, with an average age of just 23.5. In contrast, West Ham’s squad, the league’s oldest, averages 27.9 years.
Injuries have forced head coach Enzo Maresca to rely heavily on young talent. In their recent 4-0 win over Southampton, four academy graduates featured. “Maybe there were too many young players at the end, but it’s good to see,” Maresca admitted. “Chelsea’s academy has always been strong, and we already have players like Levi Colwill who are stepping up.”
Despite the investment in youth, Chelsea continue to struggle, leaving questions over whether their transfer strategy is setting them up for long-term success or further disappointment.