Chelsea’s Ian Maatsen may depart on loan amid FIFA loophole

Ian Maatsen, a 21-year-old left-back, could leave Chelsea on loan this January due to a FIFA rule loophole. Burnley and Borussia Dortmund are interested in his return, while Manchester City is also considering a move. Maatsen falls under the Under-21 category, exempt from the maximum seven-player loan limit.

Chelsea's Ian Maatsen May Depart On Loan Amid Fifa Loophole

Chelsea’s Ian Maatsen, 21, could potentially leave the club on loan this January due to a loophole in FIFA rules. Having made 15 appearances for Chelsea this season, Maatsen, who spent the previous season on loan at Burnley, has started only three times under manager Mauricio Pochettino.

Burnley is reportedly interested in bringing him back on loan, while Borussia Dortmund is also eyeing a potential £30 million transfer. Chelsea, currently at the maximum limit of seven players out on loan allowed by FIFA, could navigate this restriction since Maatsen falls under the Under-21 category, exempt from the limitation. The left-back’s contract expires in 18 months, and there have been no discussions regarding an extension.

Manchester City is also reportedly interested in Maatsen, with Pep Guardiola considering a January move. Chelsea might consider offloading players like Maatsen to alleviate financial fair play constraints, with potential sales contributing to additional signings.

Here is the highlight video of Ian Maatsen’s skills.

I. Maatsen

Ian Maatsen

Forwarder, Defender, Midfielder

NetherlandsNetherlands

Age: 22

178 cm

kg

Season 2023/2024
Played 15 18 Missed
Minutes 1180 78.7 Avg
Goals 1 0.1 Avg
Assist 2 0.1 Avg
Attempt 19 1.3 Avg
Passes 847 56.582.9% AvgSucc
Yellow 5 0.3 Avg
Red 0 0.0 Avg

Chelsea performance and stats

Chelsea

Manager: Mauricio Pochettino Trossero
Rank 7th
Win 16
Draw 9
Loss 11
Goals 73-61
Diff 12

Chelsea will play the next match in FA Cup against Preston North End on Saturday 6th of January in London. The prediction is Chelsea winning the match.​

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