Why did Christian Pulisic stay at Chelsea?

15.09.2022, 13:05 sbnation.com

The American star was not moved during the summer transfer window, and it probably wasn’t due to asking price. As everyone knows by now, despite rumors placing him in Premier League clubs such as Manchester United and Newcastle United, as well as Champions League clubs in Italy (Juventus) and Spain, Christian Pulisic is after all, remaining with Chelsea, at least until the winter transfer window. But did the front office really want to move him? Were the new American ownership group really looking for a highest bidder or for the American to land somewhere he would be immediately required in the starting lineup? My guess is no, not really. In other words, the summer transfer window closing without him being sent out on loan (which is what is said to have been their condition) was always the front office’s true intention, even if they made it seem otherwise. Here are the main motives for Chelsea not having moved Pulisic: They need the extra pair of legs and keeping a star who knows system inside-out Chelsea are not only competing for the Premier League title and Champions League. They also have the Carabao Cup third round fixture coming up just before the World Cup and FA Cup fixtures just following it. Talk about a packed schedule. So, the fact they’re involved in four different competitions along with many (and I mean MANY) of their players coming off World Cup performances (himself included) means they need the depth, and that is what Pulisic provides, if nothing else. He is a quality player who can make a difference, and you never know if injuries will be a thing for other players, forcing playing time for him at some point. Chelsea could be keeping him as insurance, though I’d be surprised if this was the case. It is a possibility, however.