Chelsea’s Conference League success and top-four finish last season are not the only reasons why Enzo Maresca deserves credit.
The Chelsea manager also gave plenty of the club’s youngsters first-team opportunities, including Josh Acheampong, Tyrique George and 16-year-old Reggie Walsh.
They did not disappoint either, with George being a big reason why Chelsea even finished in the top four. It was his goal that sparked the Blues’ comeback in a crucial 2-1 win against Fulham in April.
Following Jadon Sancho’s return to Manchester United, Chelsea fans are hoping to see more of George. Unsurprisingly, there are now eyes on Chelsea’s talented youngsters after the impact they made last term.
Josh Acheampong attracting Premier League interest
Acheampong’s contribution has not gone under the radar either, with the defender having caught the attention of other English sides.
According to journalist Simon Phillips via his Substack, “a few Premier League clubs” have enquired about taking Acheampong on loan.
However, Phillips has stated that whether Chelsea decide to loan out Acheampong or not will depend on what happens with Malo Gusto.
If Gusto is not sold, then Acheampong could be sent to another club for the 2025/26 season. If he is, then the 19-year-old is set to remain at Stamford Bridge and provide cover for Reece James.
| Josh Acheampong’s 2024/25 stats | Appearances | Minutes | Yellow cards | Red cards |
| Premier League | 4 | 169 | 1 | 0 |
| Conference League | 7 | 585 | 0 | 0 |
| Carabao Cup | 1 | 27 | 0 | 0 |
| Total | 12 | 781 | 1 | 0 |
It is thought that Bayern Munich have enquired about signing Gusto, who made 41 appearances in all competitions for Chelsea last season.
Chelsea should consider sacrificing Malo Gusto for Josh Acheampong
Selling Gusto would not be the worst idea if it means more opportunities for Acheampong.
The English youngster has so much potential; Chelsea cannot get his development wrong. As well as that, Gusto has really struggled to adapt to playing as an inverted full-back.
Gusto’s performance in the Conference League final really showed that, with the 22-year-old having to be taken off at half-time.
All in all, Chelsea should go big on Acheampong, even if it means parting ways with Gusto this summer.
