Mauricio Pochettino will be left wondering if Chelsea made a mistake in January when they sent Ian Maatsen out on loan to Borussia Dortmund. After Maatsen helped Dortmund reach the Champions League semi-finals, scoring a crucial goal in their second leg win over Atletico Madrid, it has become evident that he has been a key player for the team.
Maatsen’s loan spell at Chelsea last season was successful, playing at left-back for Burnley, and he had hoped to impress Pochettino upon his return to the club. However, despite injuries and inconsistent form from other players, Maatsen had limited opportunities at Chelsea, mostly playing in unorthodox forward positions.
He struggled to find consistency and rhythm in England before being loaned out to Dortmund. In the Bundesliga, Maatsen has become a crucial member of the Dortmund team, performing impressively in the Champions League and gaining valuable experience.
He expressed his gratitude for the opportunity at Dortmund and indicated a desire to play at the highest level. Chelsea will need to consider Maatsen’s future, as he has just over two years left on his contract after signing a new deal before joining Dortmund.
Although there is no option to buy in his loan agreement, Dortmund’s sporting director has hinted at interest in a permanent move, given Maatsen’s impact at the club. It remains to be seen whether Chelsea’s decision to loan out Maatsen will come back to haunt them, as he has excelled at Dortmund and may consider a permanent move to the club.
This situation will likely be evaluated in the summer, considering economic factors and Maatsen’s performance.