Chelsea players have 191 years

Chelsea Football Club has amassed a staggering total of 191 years remaining on player contracts, far exceeding any other Premier League team, with Tottenham being the closest at 97 years. This strategy, introduced under new owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali, involves signing younger players to long-term deals, often between six to nine years, which allows the club to spread transfer fees over a longer period. Critics, including Jamie Carragher and Graeme Souness, have voiced concerns over this approach, suggesting it could lead to complacency among players and complicate squad management, given the club's current roster of over 40 players. Chelsea's summer transfer spending is nearing £200 million, raising further questions about the sustainability of their recruitment strategy. Additionally, the sheer size of the squad has led to some players, like Romelu Lukaku, being separated from the main training group as the club navigates this complicated dynamic. The situation poses challenges for manager Enzo Maresca, who must address both player performance and contract management amidst a crowded squad.