Syed Talib
Updated on: October 14, 2024 7:35 am GMT
Sky Sports icon Jeff Stelling has raised eyebrows about whether Chelsea’s summer signing Pedro Neto might already be regretting his high-profile move from Wolverhampton Wanderers. Neto, who joined Chelsea for a reported fee of £54 million, was anticipated to be a pivotal player. However, the 24-year-old has faced challenges securing a starting position in a star-studded lineup.
Neto’s move to Chelsea raised expectations. After spending five years at Wolves, where he made a name for himself in the Premier League, he signed a seven-year contract with Chelsea, keeping him at Stamford Bridge until 2031.
Despite these promising prospects, Stelling believes Neto may be questioning his decision.
### Competition for Spots
Neto has played in six of Chelsea’s seven matches this season but has started only twice, often coming off the bench. Chelsea’s manager Enzo Maresca has a variety of attacking options at his disposal, including new recruits Joao Felix and Jadon Sancho, along with Noni Madueke and Mykhailo Mudryk. This array of talent makes it increasingly difficult for Neto to claim a spot in the first team.
Stelling shared his thoughts during a segment on talkSPORT, saying, “I just wonder if he is regretting in any way shape or form his move because he can’t get a start at Chelsea. You do want to see him on the football pitch because he has had so many injuries over the years; he has played so little football.”
### Upcoming Opportunities
Chelsea fans are hoping for an exciting cup run as the team heads into the next round of the Carabao Cup. Neto might find his chance to shine in the upcoming match against League Two side Barrow. Maresca indicated he plans to rotate his squad for this fixture, which could benefit Neto and other players who have seen limited action.
“They are players that train every day very well, but unfortunately, I cannot give them chances,” Maresca noted at his pre-match press conference. “Tomorrow is a good chance for them to get minutes and hopefully win the game.”
### Building Up Fitness
While Neto adapts to life at Chelsea, he aims to build his match fitness. He has not completed a full 90-minute match since February and is yet to play an entire game for Chelsea.
Stelling’s concerns about Neto are not unfounded. Many players face similar challenges when transitioning to new clubs, especially when they are not immediately utilized in the starting lineup. However, it may be too soon for anyone to definitively say Neto regrets his move.
### Conclusion
As Neymar hopes to find his rhythm in a highly competitive environment at Chelsea, the upcoming matches—especially the Carabao Cup clash—will be crucial for him. While Stelling’s comments reflect a genuine concern for the young player’s opportunities, football fans know that seasons are long. With the Premier League and cup fixtures on the horizon, Neto still has ample time to establish himself among the Blues’ talents.
Chelsea supporters remain optimistic about this season, hoping Neto can find his footing sooner rather than later. For now, all eyes will be on Tuesday’s match against Barrow—an excellent opportunity for the on-loan star to showcase his skills.
Neto just started his time at Chelsea, and people are curious about what his role will be. There’s a lot of hope for him to be successful in the future!
