A few years ago, many thought Charly Musonda Jr. would be one of the most talked about young players in Europe by the time he reached 21.
In some way, he is, but not for his performances on the pitch.
More for his social media antics off it.
Recently complaining about a lack of game time at Chelsea in a less than cryptic Instagram post, the Belgium U21 international would also like to play for his national team, having turned down the opportunity to continue playing for the youth teams.
However, some, including Roberto Martinez, would rather see him work hard and prove that he deserves to be picked for club and country.
Speaking to So Foot, the former Everton coach explained the situation, and appeared far from sympathetic towards the Chelsea starlet’s situation.
He said: “We all know his talent, but he’s reached a period in his life where he needs to play. In fact, the club wanted to loan him, but he didn’t want to go because he thought he would be playing. In that case, it’s quite hard to moan about your situation.
“You need to distinguish two things with young players. Their potential and their performances”.
While, as Martinez said, everyone is aware of what he could become, Musonda clearly isn’t impressing Antonio Conte enough to choose him above the likes of Pedro, Willian and Eden Hazard, which, admittedly, would be tough for any player.
It might be best for all parties if a loan in January was sorted, but for that to happen, the young Belgian will need to agree to it.
Will he? If he carries on sitting on the bench and only appearing in the EFL Cup, he might not have a choice if he wants to progress.
