What next for Ben Chilwell? Enzo Maresca provides update on Blues outcast after defender fails to seal Stamford Bridge exit

The 27-year-old defender had been among a group of players, known as the ‘bomb squad,’ who were exiled by Maresca during the summer as part of his squad overhaul. While prominent players such as Raheem Sterling, Conor Gallagher, and Romelu Lukaku managed to secure transfers away from the club, Chilwell remains stuck at Stamford Bridge. The club included Chilwell in the 25-man list submitted to the Premier League for the new season.

Chilwell's departure was hindered by several factors, most notably his £200,000-a-week salary, which proved too steep for potential suitors. Additionally, concerns over his injury history further complicated negotiations. Despite being tentatively linked with clubs in Turkey, where the transfer window closes on Friday, no serious bids flew in for the left-back.

Ahead of Chelsea’s Premier League fixture against Bournemouth, Maresca addressed Chilwell’s situation and said: "Ben is just about the only one [of players the club wanted to loan or sell] still here. We are going to sit with him and find a solution. He’s probably going to be back with us in training because he's doing that at the moment. He was training apart because the idea was for him to leave, but probably now he’s going to start training with us."

Chilwell has not featured in a competitive match since April when he made a brief appearance in Chelsea’s FA Cup clash against Manchester City. He came on as a late substitute for Marc Cucurella, playing just two minutes in what was his last outing for the club.

Chelsea's defensive depth has been a concern, and having an experienced player like Chilwell back in the fold could prove valuable for Maresca’s side as they navigate the challenges ahead. The West London side are scheduled to travel to Bournemouth this Saturday but it is unlikely that Chilwell will be included in the matchday squad.