Chelsea Star Sends Concise Message to Ian Maatsen as Mauricio Pochettino Uncovers £35m Solution
Ian Maatsen has had a fruitful five months away from Chelsea since joining Borussia Dortmund on loan in January. The Netherlands international quickly established himself as the German club’s best left-back, making 20 appearances since his temporary departure from Stamford Bridge.
Dortmund has only lost three Bundesliga games since Maatsen’s arrival, but they have truly shone in the Champions League.
In the last-16, Dortmund defeated PSV 3-1 on aggregate, before turning around their quarter-final tie against Atletico Madrid by winning the second leg 4-2, with Maatsen on target, following a narrow defeat in Spain.
Paris Saint-Germain were the favourites for their semi-final match, but Dortmund delivered 180 minutes of pure efficiency, winning 1-0 at home and away.
Following that result, Maatsen is set to return to London, but this time via Wembley Stadium, where he will face Dortmund in the Champions League final, surprising many.
The last European final at the home of English football, in 2013, featured Dortmund, but they were defeated by fellow German side Bayern Munich, a match that could be repeated this year.
In the other semi-final, Real Madrid will face Bayern in the second leg on Wednesday evening, following a 2-2 first leg draw.
Back in December, Maatsen had only played 199 minutes in the Premier League, so the idea of him playing in that season’s Champions League final would have seemed strange. Carney Chukwuemeka was among those who congratulated Dortmund after their Champions League victory.
On Instagram, Maatsen posted a number of photos from the clash with the caption: “Dare to dream, work to achieve! Wembley we’re coming.” Chukwuemeka then replied: “Maatsss Wow, [clapping emoji and two fire emojis].”
Chelsea Star Sends Concise Message to Ian Maatsen as Mauricio Pochettino Uncovers £35m Solution