‘Sometimes it’s not fair’: Maatsen on lack of playing time at Chelsea

Ian Maatsen made 15 appearances for Chelsea this season across all competitions before leaving on loan for Dortmund. The full-back started just one Premier League game and two League Cup matches.

In two months in Germany, the Dutchman has already played more minutes than in almost six months at Stamford Bridge.

“The coach, the board, gave me a lot of confidence because they really wanted me,” the 22-year-old said about Dortmund in an interview with the Guardian. “They put trust in me and I put trust in them. I think that’s why it went so well.

“I had trust at Chelsea but with the pressure they are under it is sometimes difficult for a manager to let everyone play – especially young talents with potential.

“He has to make decisions for the team. You have to deal with it as a young player. Sometimes it’s not fair but maybe it’s the best decision for the club and other teammates. I appreciate that. But I want to play football.”