Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has publicly called for the club to sign a new central defender to fill the void left by Levi Colwill, who faces a lengthy spell on the sidelines following surgery on an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury. The 22-year-old England international, a cornerstone of Chelsea’s defense last season, is expected to miss most of the 2025-26 campaign.
Colwill was a near-constant presence in the Premier League last term, starting 35 of Chelsea’s 38 matches as they secured Champions League qualification. His contributions extended beyond domestic play, with significant substitute appearances in the Conference League final and the Club World Cup, helping Chelsea clinch their first major trophies under the current ownership.
Enzo Maresca highlighted Levi Colwill’s unique position in the team, noting his key role in starting attacks. “When we build our play, we do it with Levi in the middle,” Maresca explained. “Last season, we played 64 games, and either Levi or Tosin Adarabioyo was always in that central role. With Levi out, Tosin is the only player who can perform that job well.”
While Maresca insists on recruiting a new central defender, Chelsea’s hierarchy is reportedly leaning toward an “internal solution.” The manager acknowledged that other defenders, such as Jorrel Hato, Wesley Fofana, and Benoit Badiashile, could adapt to Colwill’s role, but he raised concerns about their suitability and injury histories. “Hato never played as the central figure last season at Ajax,” Maresca noted. “Fofana and Badiashile also have injury issues at the moment, which is why I’ve been clear with the club about what I think we need.”
During Chelsea’s pre-season, youngsters Josh Acheampong and Trevoh Chalobah were tested in Colwill’s position, featuring in victories over Bayer Leverkusen and AC Milan. However, Maresca remains unconvinced that these options provide the long-term stability required for a demanding schedule that includes Premier League and Champions League commitments.
Chelsea have been linked with Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi, who is also a target for reigning champions Liverpool. However, the club’s immediate focus appears to be on bolstering their attack, with ongoing discussions involving Manchester United’s Alejandro Garnacho and RB Leipzig’s Xavi Simons as the transfer window nears its close.
Maresca’s comments highlight a potential rift with Chelsea’s board as the club navigates a critical period in their squad rebuild. With Colwill’s absence leaving a tactical and defensive gap, the coming weeks will reveal whether Chelsea heed their manager’s call for reinforcements or stick to their internal strategy.
