As Chelsea’s struggles in the Premier League continue, it has to be said that some of the players they let go in January have reached new levels since their departure.
As AC Milan continue to reap the rewards of Joao Felix in form, Renato Veiga has enjoyed an excellent start to life as a Juventus player.
The Portugal international recorded the most defensive actions in their big win over Inter Milan, helping them climb into the top four.
Something that has been notable of late is the position Veiga has been playing in. The young defender has started every game at the heart of defence.
Renato Veiga could have started at Chelsea over out-of-form Levi Colwill
This was reportedly behind Veiga’s desire to leave Stamford Bridge last month, with him not feeling as if he got enough opportunities to feature in what he believes is his preferred position.
The left side of the centre-back duo at Chelsea has largely been played by Levi Colwill this season, a player the Blues view as crucial to their project.
However, his defending has been poor in recent weeks. He committed an error that led to West Ham’s goal a couple of weeks ago, and was incredibly weak in the build up to Brighton’s third at the weekend.
With Benoit Badiashile missing the majority of this season due to injury, there has not been a direct option to replace him amid his drop of form.
Having someone like Veiga could have been perfect for Enzo Maresca to play in that position to give Colwill a much-needed rest. He has featured for near enough every minute of the league season so far.
Renato Veiga’s Chelsea future
Despite the fact Veiga has only departed on loan at this stage, there was certainly a desire for the player to move on permanently in January.
It has previously been predicted to The Chelsea Chronicle that Veiga’s future in West London was unlikely if he played a key role at Juventus this season.
Given the fact he is one of the first names on the teamsheet there right now, there will almost certainly be an effort made to bring him in on a permanent basis.
Chelsea are the ones who tied him down to a long-term deal, but it feels unlikely they will step in his way to stop him leaving should he request it.
