RB Leipzig have recently confirmed that Ethan Ampadu has a concussion after picking up a knock during Wales’ European qualifying game against Croatia. The Bundesliga club are yet to set a date for his potential return, but it is believed that the concussion could further derail an already disappointing loan spell for Ampadu.
Is Ampadu a victim of Chelsea’s loan policy?
Ampadu moved to Leipzig on a season-long loan deal in the summer. He was encouraged by new manager Frank Lampard to go elsewhere and find game-time. And to that end, Chelsea were wise given the fact that they already had a few options in central defence.
Besides, Leipzig are a perfectly tuned club, that has given opportunities to youngsters in the past. They are even coached by 32-year-old Julian Nagelsmann, who had previously played a vital role behind the transformation of players like Kerem Demirbay, Andrej Kramaric and Nadiem Amiri during his time at Hoffenheim.
But, Ampadu has been extremely unlucky as he failed to receive first-team opportunities. Even when key defender Dayot Upamecano was out, coach Nagelsmann often overlooked the Welshman in favour of Nordi Mukiele.
At the same time, however, the right-back performed really well in central defence, helping Leipzig maintain the best defensive record in the league. And now with Upamecano back from injury, Ampadu has fallen behind Mukiele in the pecking order. In fact, the youngster is yet to make his Bundesliga debut.
However, as iterated earlier, it is not really Chelsea’s fault that Ampadu is surprisingly not receiving enough opportunities in Leipzig – a club known for their ability to nurture young, talented individuals.
What should Chelsea do with Ampadu?
It’s unlikely Ampadu will manage to win over Nagelsmann anytime soon unless Leipzig fall in a serious injury crisis in the defensive department. His only hope is that either Upamecano or Ibrahima Konate leave in the upcoming January transfer window, which will give him a more prominent role in Nagelsmann’s plans.
But, it is perhaps wiser for Chelsea to recall him from his loan spell at Leipzig. The 19-year-old could provide additional competition for Jorginho. Besides, with the Blues not being able to sign new players, his presence in the team could be useful for Lampard, who has been willing to provide youngsters with a chance to shine at the big stage.
