Chelsea’s young Spanish striker, Marc Guiu, is reportedly pushing for a return to Sunderland in the January transfer window, following growing frustrations over his lack of game time under manager Enzo Maresca.
Youngster Marc Guiu Wants Exit After Chelsea Recall Backfires
The 19-year-old, who joined Chelsea from Barcelona last summer for £5 million, initially moved to Sunderland on a season-long loan.
His spell at the Stadium of Light started promisingly; he scored one goal in three appearances and was settling into life in the north-east.
However, his plans were abruptly curtailed when Chelsea exercised an emergency recall after striker Liam Delap suffered a hamstring injury in August.
Guiu was brought back to Stamford Bridge to provide cover up front, but his involvement has been minimal since his return.
His frustration is said to have peaked when he was overlooked for selection in favour of young winger Tyrique George during Chelsea’s Champions League match against Benfica.
This decision by Maresca appears to have been a final straw for the ambitious teenager, who is now eager to resurrect his temporary switch back to Sunderland when the transfer window reopens.
Despite his limited opportunities, Chelsea management rate Guiu highly. The club does not want to sell the striker, whom they see as a potential first-team regular in future years.
Manager Enzo Maresca has also stated publicly that he rates Guiu and that there is “no doubt he will get minutes”.
The situation may resolve itself naturally in January. With Liam Delap due back from injury soon and the competition for places remaining fierce, Chelsea could be more willing to sanction another loan for Guiu in the second half of the season.
As he has already played for Chelsea and Sunderland this campaign, a return to the Black Cats is a legally viable option, as players are only permitted to represent two clubs in one season.
