Maresca Cools Talk of Disasi Return as Defender’s Chelsea Future Remains Uncertain

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has moved to dampen speculation that Axel Disasi could be reintegrated into the first-team squad, despite the defender’s recent involvement in senior training sessions during the international break.

The 27-year-old Frenchman has endured a difficult year at Stamford Bridge. After slipping down the pecking order last January, he spent the second half of the 2024/25 season on loan at Aston Villa—and has yet to feature competitively for Chelsea this campaign. A summer transfer failed to materialise, leaving Disasi in a state of limbo as Maresca continues to mould his squad.

A Brief Reprieve During the Break

There was a glimmer of hope for Disasi earlier this month. He returned to senior training during the November international break, earning recognition for the positive influence he has had on the club’s younger players. This followed an impressive performance for the Chelsea Under-21s, where his leadership and professionalism reportedly stood out.

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That brief involvement prompted questions about whether Disasi could be in line for a surprise recall—especially with Chelsea preparing for an intense run of 11 fixtures before the end of 2025.

Maresca: “He’s Helping the Second Team”

However, Maresca was quick to shut down talk of a first-team comeback during Friday’s press conference.

“I said many times that Axel and Raheem are Chelsea players,” Maresca reiterated. “Axel is helping the second team, he’s helping the younger players. During the international break we had just five, six players here, so we needed some second-team players. Axel was part of some sessions—but I think it was just one with us.”

The Italian made it clear that Disasi’s role remains unchanged:

“At the moment he’s helping the second team, he’s working with the second team and he’s there with the second team.”

Could Disasi Still Play Before January?

While Maresca’s words suggest a first-team return is unlikely, Chelsea’s packed schedule means nothing can be fully ruled out. The most realistic opportunity for Disasi could come in the EFL Cup quarter-final against Cardiff City in mid-December. With squad rotation essential heading into the hectic winter period, Maresca may be tempted to give his fringe defenders valuable minutes.

Such an appearance could also serve another purpose: putting Disasi in the shop window. With the January transfer window approaching, both Chelsea and the player would benefit from finding a new club swiftly. Regular game time—even in a cup tie—could help attract interest and facilitate a move that suits all parties.

What Next for Disasi?

For now, Disasi remains a Chelsea player—but one firmly within the second-team setup. His professionalism and leadership continue to be appreciated behind the scenes, yet a long-term future at Stamford Bridge looks increasingly unlikely.

Unless injuries force Maresca’s hand, a Stamford Bridge farewell in January appears the most probable outcome.