Chelsea have reportedly taken a surprising step with Axel Disasi, with the Blues quietly easing the French defender back into first-team training under Enzo Maresca.
Once considered part of the club’s infamous “bomb squad” of unwanted players during the summer window, Disasi now looks set for a return to the Blues’ main squad until at least January.
The 27-year-old had spent the early months of the season training away from Maresca’s core squad alongside Raheem Sterling, after the club made it clear he was no longer part of their long-term plans.
But the narrative shifted when Disasi unexpectedly featured and captained Chelsea’s Under-21s in a 4–1 win over Reading. With no immediate explanation from the club, speculation grew before Chelsea later confirmed he had joined the first team for Thursday’s session at Cobham.
According to reports, Maresca is prepared to keep Disasi involved over the coming weeks, largely due to his professionalism and commitment behind the scenes.
The former Monaco defender has been pushing to revive his Chelsea career, despite admitting after the window closed that he had attempted to secure a late loan move back to Ligue 1.
Chelsea sources are said to be impressed with his attitude, yet his chances of significant minutes remain slim.
Even with Levi Colwill sidelined, the competition at centre-back is fierce, with Wesley Fofana, Tosin Adarabioyo, Trevoh Chalobah, Josh Acheampong and Benoît Badiashile all ahead of him in the pecking order.
For now, Disasi offers Maresca an extra body and emergency cover as the festive schedule approaches. However, Chelsea are still expected to try and facilitate his departure in January, with several clubs monitoring the situation should the Blues reopen the door for a move.
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