Joao Pedro reacts to Tyrique George’s message after Chelsea latest
Chelsea’s plethora of new signings already this summer could spell bad news for Tyrique George’s prospects at Stamford Bridge.
George was one of several Cobham academy talents to make his breakthrough under Enzo Maresca last season, featuring in 26 matches in all competitions and becoming a regular fixture on the Blues’ bench.
Josh Acheampong, Samuel Rak-Sakyi and Shim Mheuka were also given regular minutes in Chelsea‘s Conference League campaign, but their chances of game-time have already taken a hit this summer.
Maresca twice brought George off the bench in the Club World Cup group stages, but after the arrivals of Joao Pedro and other forwards mid-tournament, the 19-year-old wasn’t seen again as Chelsea lifted the title.
Pedro praises George amid Chelsea transfer uncertainty
George was a semi-regular option off the bench to bolster Chelsea last season, but Maresca has already added Kendry Paez, Jamie Gittens and Estevao as options who could play instead of him out wide.
Gittens’ transfer to Stamford Bridge sparked a question over George’s future next season, and Chelsea could sanction a loan deal for the teenager to get regular game-time and continue his development.
Acheampong was seen as the player more likely to head out on loan before the arrival of so many options in George’s position, and both youngsters will be weighing up their long-term futures this summer.
George showed no signs of any such pressure in a post on Instagram (21 July) as Chelsea’s players take time off following the Club World Cup, which Joao Pedro responded to with two ‘clapping hands’ emojis.
Chelsea changes to continue after Club World Cup success
Football Insider Verdict
The mid-tournament signings of Gittens and Joao Pedro by Chelsea did raise some eyebrows, but the Brazilian made an instant impact with three goals in the semi-final and final against Fluminense and PSG.
Pedro’s £60million transfer fee from Brighton has effectively been paid off already by his contribution to their Club World Cup success, with an £80m windfall earned from Chelsea reaching the decider alone.
George may be one of the casualties of yet another Chelsea spending spree ahead of next season, but given the results of their early summer transfer activity, it’s hard to see the Blues turning down the opportunity to sign more players.