Ian Maatsen joined Dortmund on loan in January in search of first-team football
Despite agreeing to a contract extension with Chelsea through 2026 in January, Ian Maatsen has not decided on his future with the team. Borussia Dortmund is eager to finalise a permanent transfer for the Dutch left-back, who has a £35 million release clause.
Maatsen, a graduate of the Chelsea academy, is on loan at Dortmund right now. Before moving to Germany in January, the 22-year-old started just one Premier League match during the first half of the season. Since then, he has started and participated in every minute of their Champions League knockout games.
Because of his recent success, Ronald Koeman has included him in the Netherlands’ tentative Euro 2024 team.
When asked if he would be interested in returning to London ahead of this Saturday’s Champions League final between Real Madrid and Wembley, Maatsen said that no decision has been made yet.
“We’re going to decide where my future is going to be after the summer, and I still have a contract,” Maatsen stated.
“I know that my goal in coming to Dortmund was to demonstrate to myself that I am a top player on the biggest stage,” he continued.
Although it is unclear if Enzo Maresca, the expected future Chelsea manager, will advocate for Maatsen’s recall, Chelsea has plenty of left-back options in Marc Cucurella and Ben Chilwell. Furthermore, Maatsen disclosed that he hasn’t yet discussed his next course of action with Chelsea.
“No, not just yet,” I said to them. They visited Dortmund a few times to check on me, and they’re pleased with my progress, Maatsen remarked, thanking Dortmund for allowing him to succeed.
“They (Dortmund) merely provide opportunities for youth.” Like me, I arrived here completely unprepared. I came here because they allow us to shine, and I’m extremely happy about that. It’s such a nice feeling, and I feel like I’ve been playing here with the guys for a long time,’ he remarked.