Thomas Tuchel’s praise for Kai Havertz following Chelsea’s win over Everton last night ‘does not bode well’ for teammate Hakim Ziyech.
That’s according to Voetbal International, who believe the German midfielder may end up forcing the former Ajax man out of Stamford Bridge.
Ziyech was one of several big-name signings to arrive at Chelsea last year, as former manager Frank Lampard looked to build a title-challenging side.
Both players have struggled for their best form across this campaign, though, with Ziyech beset by niggling injuries and Havertz still struggling after fighting off COVID-19.
As an £80m signing, it is far more crucial for the club to find a role for the German, who was touted as the star of the future following his performances for Bayer Leverkusen.
The win over Everton saw him playing a new false nine position at the top of the team, a role Tuchel has hinted he sees his compatriot flourishing in moving forward.
That is something he certainly did against the Toffees, with a role in both goals in the 2-0 win earning him praise from Tuchel afterwards.
According to VI, Havertz ‘showed why Chelsea spent £80m’ to get him, and that praise from his manager following the game ‘does not seem to bode well’ for Ziyech.
That’s because the Moroccan plays a similar role to Havertz but ‘has failed to make a smashing impression’ when given a chance by Tuchel in recent weeks.
Moreover, recent results mean there is no reason for the Chelsea boss to change, with the Blues now serious contenders for a top-four spot and unbeaten since Tuchel arrived to replace Lampard at the helm.
That all bodes ill for Ziyech, who it seems is set to lose the battle of the big signings currently taking place at the club.
