Enzo Maresca addresses Josh Acheampong's Chelsea future after young contract rebel ends standoff by committing future to Blues

There were a lot of speculations over Acheampong's future at Stamford Bridge as he had attracted interest from other clubs, however, the young defender put all rumours to rest by penning a new long-term contract with Chelsea which will keep him at the club until 2029.

The 18-year-old was handed his Blues debut by former manager Mauricio Pochettino against Tottenham Hotspur in the Premier League in the 2023/24 season. Last week, in a Europa Conference League clash against Astana, current boss Maresca handed him his first start as the club clinched a 3-1 win. The teenager has been touted as the next big thing at the West London side and after he committed his future to the club, the Italian coach spoke highly of the defender's abilities.

Speaking to reporters, the 44-year-old said: "Since pre-season, I have been trying to better understand the situation with him because of his contract and this kind of thing. Finally, the club has found an agreement with him and we are all happy because we are all convinced and we are all sure Josh can be a great player for this club."

When asked if the club would consider sending him away on a short loan spell in the January window, the coach added: "My opinion is he has to stay close to us. So as much as we can keep him here, that is much better for me."

Maresca's side will be back in action this Thursday as they take on Shamrock Rovers in the Europa Conference League before facing Everton in an away Premier League clash on Sunday.