October 16th 2023.
Ian Maatsen is trying to make his mark at Chelsea, but it's been an uphill battle. The 21-year-old joined the Blues in 2018, but has since spent three seasons on loan at Charlton, Coventry and Burnley, where he had a stellar campaign and was part of their promotion from the Championship.
Burnley were keen to bring him back for the Premier League season, but Maatsen chose to stay at Chelsea in the hope of proving his worth. He's made six substitute appearances and two starts in the League Cup this season, but his progress has been hampered by the immense competition at left-back.
Barcelona have reportedly taken note of Maatsen's situation, and know that his contract is up 2025. With this in mind, Chelsea may be keen to cash in on him next year.
Maatsen has also earned recognition on the international stage, recently being called up to the Netherlands squad for the first time by Ronald Koeman. He didn't make an appearance in either of the matches against France or Greece, but just being part of the squad is an achievement.
Virgil van Dijk's late penalty secured a 1-0 win over Greece on Monday, putting the Dutch in a great position to qualify for Euro 2024. Maatsen will be hoping he can make the squad for the tournament if they make it.
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