Official: Chelsea recall Charly Musonda Jr from Celtic

Everybody pretty much knew this already, whether by reading between the lines or reading above the lines or even reading below the lines (or keeping an eye on Rüdiger’s Instagram story). Or perhaps we were simply familiar with the protagonists involved in this situation and could see it going the exact same way as their other similar exploits had gone recently. Chalk up another failed loan-care opportunity for Brendan Rodgers and another failed loan for Charly Jr himself, cut short just 6 months into the 18-month plan.

“He was a joy to work with, wanted to learn, but he’s at the age where he needs to be playing week-in, week-out and unfortunately I couldn’t promise him that.

”I met with Chelsea on Monday. Charly’s contract was set in that there was a review at the end of the season, whether they wanted to take him back. The idea for Charly to come out [on loan] was to play as many games as he possibly could.

“Between us both we were thinking he may not get the games that they would like him to get for next season. My job when I bring in young players is to give them the environment, and hopefully give them as much game time as I possibly can. If that doesn’t happen then of course we don’t own the player.

”He’s a terrific young player. I think the level the team has been playing at has been difficult at times for Charly to get in. But there’s no doubt he’s a talent and I’m sure next year he’ll go on and hopefully get the games that he wants.”

-Brendan Rodgers; source: BBC

So basically, Rodgers rows back on his earlier claim about giving Musonda minutes next season, then calls him not up to the level of Celtic (again). Could be harsh; could be true. The only thing that’s certain is that Musonda has now gone two full years without consistent football, and it’s all starting to be a bit concerning.