Batshuayi struggling at Crystal Palace, unwanted back at Chelsea — report

Chelsea striker Michy Batshuayi started out well enough in his latest loan spell, getting his first goal in his first start for Crystal Palace, then adding second two starts later, and finding the back of the net in the FA Cup as well, albeit in a losing effort. But the well has run dry over the past month or so, and he’s been dropped for their last two games, including the 3-2 win over Arsenal last weekend, both of which Christian Benteke started instead, collecting a goal and an assist.

According to Belgian newspaper Het Nieuwsblad (via Sport Witness), problems on and off the pitch have affected Michy during his time in South London, and have led to his dropping by manager Roy Hodgson.

Palace’s playing style is seen as a problem, as it does not fit Michy’s skills (which seems to be a common theme for him England). Michy had great success at Borussia Dortmund thanks to their attacking style, but Palace are on the opposite side of the spectrum and it’s affecting his numbers and quality of play.

Then, there are the supposed problems with his attitude in training, wherein Palace are said to be “not always satisfied” with his approach and effort.

Life outside of the club and the pitch is going as well for Michy as it always has, but career-wise, the current season has not done him any favors. The 25-year-old was expected to take his chances at Valencia and continue the form that earned him rave reviews at BVB. Instead, it’s been a season of struggle.

Unsurprisingly, despite the possibility of a transfer van, Chelsea are said to be looking to let the Batsman fly free ... though not for free. Reportedly, we would like €40 million for him, to recoup our initial investment, but getting some team to pay that much at this point would be very surprising. Batshuayi does have two more years left on his Chelsea contract.