21 Jan 2024 08:40:32
Early days I know but IM who has started in his LB role has been doing extremely well and is already a firm favourite with the Dortmund fans.
Another £35mil player, Dortmund will buy and probsbly sell on for double they pay.
From our part it will be another one we let go whilst keeping CC, an injury prone Chilley and playing Colwill out of position.
21 Jan 2024 09:06:06
Bill, that’s a bit harsh.
The Colwill at LB thing I see more as a Poch tactic as he believes we need that extra person who can head the ball defending corners and free kicks.
Cucarella had reported problems last year but generally this season, even when being asked to play as a RB have been good. It’s a shame he got injured.
Chilly has been injury prone. Fingers crossed that’s all behind him now.
Maatsen looked a good player for Burnley last season but I think he only has about 18 months left on his contract. He probably should have been given more playing time but I can see why the club will end up selling him.
21 Jan 2024 09:59:10
Sorry to be harsh Tom but perhaps if Poch has played IM as LB, he might still be with us and signed a new contract.
21 Jan 2024 10:32:44
Bill, I may well be wrong with my guess that Poch preferred Colwill at LB rather than Maatsen was for the reasons I’ve given. I would also guess that we may well see something similar with Chilly.
I think if Chilly starts games with Colwill then I expect Colwill will play “almost” in a three.
21 Jan 2024 12:21:32
I just hate to see a young player leave because he is not given a chance in his preferred role especially with the injuries we have had in that position.
21 Jan 2024 13:15:22
Bill, I agree but we don’t see them in training. I would have liked to have seen him play more in Chelsea blue. I guess these are decisions that managers get paid for and judged on!
21 Jan 2024 13:37:50
Tom
It's strange that he seems to be playing well for Dortmund but not for us in trying, could it be our coach's issue.
21 Jan 2024 14:03:21
Bill, I think he has only played one game for them.
I hope he caries on playing well.
21 Jan 2024 16:36:43
I could be wrong but did he sign an extension before leaving for BD.
Ed could clear that up.
{Ed002's Note - Yes he did.}
21 Jan 2024 17:19:37
As Ed confirmed, IM signed an extension to his contract however Dortmund have an option to buy for £35 mil I believe.
21 Jan 2024 18:04:38
I always get confused with these contracts and contract extensions. I thought it was extended to 2025 but if it’s 2026 so much the better.