Christian Atsu’s Chelsea career has taken yet another twist as the Ghanaian winger edges closer to another loan move, though uncertainty remains over his next destination.
Atsu, 24, has struggled for regular football since joining Chelsea from Porto in 2013. Despite being hailed as one of Africa’s most exciting young prospects at the time, his years in London have been marked by a succession of loan spells that have yet to bring him stability.
This weekend, the Ghana international appeared to confirm his next chapter. Speaking to the BBC, Atsu revealed that he would be heading to Spain to join Levante on loan for the remainder of the season. “I will be moving to Levante,” he reportedly said, suggesting that the deal was close to being finalised.
Yet, in Spain, a different story has been emerging. Local media insist that Levante face strong competition from Málaga, who are also keen to add Atsu to their squad. Reports suggest that the Andalusian club, currently in mid-table in La Liga, are confident of luring him away from Levante’s grasp. Málaga believe that their style of play and higher league standing could offer Atsu a more attractive platform to revive his career.
The situation leaves Atsu in limbo, with both Spanish sides pressing their claims. Levante, battling relegation, would benefit from the Ghanaian’s pace and creativity on the wing. However, Málaga could offer him a more stable environment and greater visibility at the top end of the Spanish game.
Atsu’s career trajectory has been a source of frustration both for the player and his supporters. After breaking through at Porto and impressing during a loan at Dutch side Vitesse Arnhem, Chelsea signed him in 2013 in the hope that he could develop into a Premier League star. Instead, he has been shuttled between loan deals.
His spell at Everton during the 2014–15 season was limited, with few opportunities under then-manager Roberto Martínez. A subsequent move to Bournemouth also proved disappointing, with Atsu struggling to break into the first team during their first campaign in the Premier League.
Despite these setbacks at club level, Atsu has continued to shine on the international stage. A key figure for Ghana, he was named the Best Player of the Tournament at the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations, where his dazzling runs and goals carried the Black Stars to the final. This contrast between his national team form and his difficulties in European club football highlights the paradox of his career to date.
For Chelsea, who remain stacked with attacking options, Atsu’s future at Stamford Bridge looks increasingly uncertain. The club appear resigned to sending him out once again in the hope that a regular run of games can finally unlock his potential.
For Atsu himself, the next few days could prove decisive. Whether he ends up in Valencia with Levante or in Andalusia with Málaga, the move represents yet another chance to prove himself in Europe’s top leagues.
At just 24, time is still on his side. But after years of instability, Atsu needs more than another short-term fix—he needs a home where his undoubted talent can finally flourish.
