Tensions at Stamford Bridge have escalated beyond the departure of head coach Liam Rosenior, following a string of poor results. Reports indicate a fracture among the players during this difficult period, which ultimately led to Rosenior's dismissal. Former Manchester United star Alejandro Garnacho is at the center of the discord, with the club now considering selling him this summer.
Rosenior's brief tenure at Chelsea lasted only 107 days of a five-and-a-half-year contract before he was shown the door due to disappointing performances. In his final post-match press conference, the manager criticized his players for a lack of effort, stating that the loss was not about tactics but about desire. He emphasized the need for the team to focus on the basics of football, which he felt were lacking at this level.
Senior Players Accused of Downing Tools
Some senior players have been accused of deliberately underperforming, contributing to the loss of the dressing room before Rosenior's departure. Despite their own lackluster displays, the squad was reportedly shocked by the level of nonchalance shown by Garnacho during the defeat to Manchester United.
According to reports, Chelsea players confronted Garnacho in the dressing room at halftime during the match against his former club. Garnacho had entered the game as a substitute in the 16th minute after youngster Estevao Willian suffered a hamstring injury. The Argentine winger struggled to get the better of his former teammate Diogo Dalot, who marked him effectively on the left wing.
Garnacho's Future at Chelsea in Doubt
Since forcing his way out of Manchester United to join Chelsea for £40 million, Garnacho has managed eight goals and four assists in all competitions. However, the club is reportedly open to selling him this summer after a disappointing first season. Chelsea faces financial pressures, having reported losses of over £200 million in operating costs, and Garnacho could be among those sold to balance the books.
Garnacho is not the only Argentine player under scrutiny. His compatriot Enzo Fernandez has also emerged as a potential departure from Stamford Bridge this summer.
Chelsea's Pursuit of Champions League Football
Legit.ng previously reported that Chelsea's decision to sack Liam Rosenior was driven by the club's ambition to secure a UEFA Champions League spot next season. The Blues must finish at least fifth in the league to achieve this goal, and with the transfer window still open, the club's hierarchy acted to protect their season objectives.
The internal strife at Chelsea highlights the challenges facing the team as they navigate a turbulent period both on and off the pitch.
