Ben Chilwell Seeks To Reignite His Career At Crystal Palace After Loan From Chelsea

Add as a preferred source on Google

Crystal Palace manager Oliver Glasner is optimistic about Ben Chilwell's potential to revitalise his career at the club. Chilwell joined on loan from Chelsea after being left out of Enzo Maresca's plans. The defender had only played once for Chelsea this season, in an EFL Cup match against Barrow, and has not appeared in the Premier League since April 2024.

Glasner has been impressed with Chilwell's dedication during training sessions. He believes the player can contribute significantly in the latter part of the season. "It can be a big chance for him," Glasner stated. Chilwell will need to compete with Tyrick Mitchell, who has been performing consistently well for Crystal Palace.

Chilwell's lack of game time at Chelsea provided Crystal Palace with the opportunity to sign him. Glasner noted that if Chilwell were a regular starter for Chelsea, signing him would have been impossible. Despite this, he is pleased with how Chilwell is adapting and performing in training.

"Ben played many games for Chelsea and then, for reasons I don't know and I don't care, he didn't play," Glasner remarked. This situation allowed Crystal Palace to bring him on board as they look to strengthen their squad.

Although Chilwell missed out on training with Chelsea's first-team squad in January, Glasner remains hopeful about his debut in the FA Cup fourth round against Doncaster Rovers this weekend. "Unfortunately, he couldn't take part in Chelsea's team training in January," Glasner explained.

The manager acknowledged that team training differs from individual practice, so Chilwell might need some time to adjust fully. However, the plan is for him to gain some playing minutes against Doncaster Rovers.

This move represents a fresh start for Chilwell as he aims to regain form and make a significant impact at Crystal Palace. The club hopes his experience will bolster their performance as they progress through the season.