Chelsea star who joined club in 2023 considering his future amid interest from Italy and France: Reports
Chelsea defender Axel Disasi is reportedly considering his future just a year after arriving at Stamford Bridge. The Frenchman joined the Blues from Ligue 1 side AS Monaco for €45 million.
The Daily Mail reports that Disasi has garnered interest from France and Italy, and he's contemplating his future. There are doubts that he'll suit new manager Enzo Maresca's brand of football.
Disasi was a regular under Mauricio Pochettino last season, helping Chelsea keep 10 clean sheets in 44 games across competitions. He also scored three goals, and fans grew fond of the five-cap France international.
The Blues' constant squad changes cast doubt over several players' futures. Trevoh Chalobah is another defender who is expected to leave Stamford Bridge this summer.
Chelsea signed Tosin Adarabioyo on a free transfer after he left Fulham earlier this summer. He'll likely come into Maresca's starting defense with Wesley Fofana back from injury and Levi Colwill an ever-present during pre-season.
It's unknown whether the west Londoners are willing to sell Disasi, who has five years left on his contract. He previously hadn't played his club football outside of his homeland, turning out for Monaco, Stade Reims, and Paris FC.
"I will enjoy playing in this way" - Axel Disasi appeared to play down speculation over a Chelsea exit
Disasi spoke highly of the football that Maresca is looking to implement at Chelsea. The Frenchman spoke to the club's media during pre-season, which has been problematic for the team from a results perspective:
"The idea is very clear; I think I'll learn very quickly. He wants to hold on to the football with a lot of possession and these are the things I like. I am completely ready to do this, and I will enjoy playing in this way."
Maresca earned praise for his possession-focused philosophy, which helped Leicester City win the EFL Championship last season. He previously worked as an assistant manager to Pep Guardiola at Manchester City, who has high hopes for the Italian tactician.
It will be interesting to see whether he can get the best out of players who struggled under Pochettino. The likes of Raheem Sterling, Enzo Fernandez, and Benoit Badiashile left much to be admired.
Disasi wasn't one of those, as he impressed in his debut season at Chelsea. He even occasionally moved to right-back to help with an injury crisis.