French-Congolese defender Axel Disasi back in Chelsea first-team training

Axel Disasi has returned to senior Chelsea training in a notable shift from his preseason exile, raising fresh questions about his future under Enzo Maresca.

The French-Congolese centre-back had been pushed toward the exit during the summer as Maresca encouraged him to secure a new club before the market closed on September 1.

Despite strong speculation, no move materialised, leaving Disasi on the fringes once the season began.

He was omitted from all senior matchday squads and trained away from the first team, effectively joining the group described informally as the “bomb squad”.

His only competitive minutes this term came last week when he started for Chelsea’s U21s, marking his first appearance at any level since May.

Disasi’s reintegration into senior training suggests a softening of Chelsea’s stance six weeks before the winter window opens.

The club has not disclosed whether the decision reflects tactical needs, improved performances in training, or a short-term solution to squad depth issues.

The former Monaco defender still faces an uncertain outlook, but his return to Cobham’s main training group signals a meaningful development after months in limbo.

Whether Maresca intends to restore him to the Premier League squad or is positioning him for a January move remains unclear.

Disasi joined Chelsea in 2023 and made over 40 appearances in his debut season.

His experience and aerial strength previously made him a regular in defence, but Maresca’s preference for ball-dominant centre-backs pushed him down the hierarchy during preseason.