These 2 Chelsea stars must leave in January for their own good

Branislav Ivanovic

Out of favour, and indeed out of contract in the summer, it wouldn’t be at all surprising if Branislav Ivanovic ended his nine-year stay at Chelsea this month.

The Serbian international struggled at the start of the campaign under new boss Conte, and hasn’t started in the Premier League for the Blues since they lost 3-0 to Arsenal on September 24, and thus since the Chelsea manager changed to a back three.

With just six substitute appearances since then, totalling 40 minutes of match time, the 32-year-old is clearly not in Conte’s first team plans, and thus could be moved on in January.

His contract comes to an end in June, so the Blues may look to cash in on a defender who has been excellent for Chelsea, helping them to win two Premier League titles and the Champions League, as well as personal accolades such as twice being named in the PFA Premier League Team of the Year.

Ivanovic could still do a job for many a side in Europe, and his versatility and experience would be of huge interest to many managers, both as a first team player and indeed as a mentor to younger players.