Former Liverpool midfielder and current football pundit Jamie Carragher has openly criticized Chelsea’s transfer policy, advising players to reconsider joining the West London club. Ahead of Enzo Maresca’s first season at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea has continued its aggressive approach in the transfer market, securing nine senior signings with more expected before the transfer window closes.

Despite the depth of talent this policy provides Maresca, Carragher expressed concern over the bloated nature of Chelsea’s squad, which currently includes 35 first-team players, six of whom are goalkeepers. He questioned why any player would want to join a club where competition for places is so fierce, making it difficult for newcomers to secure regular playing time.

Speaking on Monday Night Football for Sky Sports, Carragher shared his frustration with Chelsea’s recruitment strategy, arguing that the club needs to halt its relentless pursuit of new players. He emphasized that players should reconsider signing with Chelsea, especially given the lengthy contracts being offered.

“Chelsea have just got to stop buying players, and players have got to stop signing for Chelsea…If I was a player, I would look at that Chelsea project. Why would you sign? The only reason why you would sign is because someone might say, your agent might say, “we’re getting a seven-year deal on big money that’s guaranteed money for seven years”, Carragher said.

“You know what I’d say, back yourself as a player. Sign a four year deal at a proper club, and back yourself to do well, and then when you due for a renewal, your money goes up anyway. I don’t understand why players are signing seven-year deals,” Carragher added.

Carragher suggested that players should back themselves by signing shorter deals with other clubs, rather than being enticed by the long-term financial security offered by Chelsea. He believes that by signing shorter contracts, players can prove their worth and eventually earn better terms elsewhere, rather than committing to a project where their future playing time is uncertain.