“They have a plan” – Jeffrey Bruma defends Chelsea’s handling of Jorrel Hato as questions emerge about the young Dutchman’s limited minutes under Enzo Maresca. The €44m summer signing from Ajax has started just two of Chelsea’s opening eight Premier League games, leading some to wonder if he’s struggling to adapt to English football.
However, Bruma, speaking to NOS, is confident that Hato’s development is on track and that the London club are deliberately easing him into the squad. The former PSV and Wolfsburg defender, who knows Chelsea’s structure well from his own time at the club, believes the Blues’ measured approach mirrors how top clubs integrate young talent.
Bruma: Chelsea see Hato as a “pillar for the future”
“They have a plan for him. They bring in young lads at a steady pace. You see that with Hato too. He’s gradually getting more minutes. Hato has absolutely nothing to worry about.” — Jeffrey Bruma, via NOS
Bruma added that Chelsea’s €44m investment reflects genuine belief in Hato’s long-term potential:
“They’re not paying such a large sum for nothing. They see him as a pillar for the future. He’s not a player for now, but for the coming years.”
Hato’s Chelsea start so far
After captaining Ajax as a teenager — becoming their youngest-ever skipper — Hato arrived in London as one of Europe’s most promising defenders. At 19, he’s featured in just four league matches (two starts, two from the bench) but remains part of Maresca’s gradual integration plan, especially following Levi Colwill’s recent injury.
| Stat (2025/26 Premier League) | Jorrel Hato |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 4 |
| Starts | 2 |
| Minutes Played | 185 |
| Tackles per Game | 1.5 |
| Pass Accuracy | 91% |
source: sofascore match data – 22 October 2025
The numbers show that while his appearances are limited, his performances have been tidy and controlled — typical of his Ajax schooling.
Our View
In our view, Chelsea’s approach with Hato is both logical and familiar. Under Maresca, development has been prioritised over short-term fixes, particularly with younger signings. The club’s strategy of gradual exposure mirrors what Manchester City once did with Phil Foden — patience before prominence.
Hato’s technical calm and leadership qualities mark him as a future cornerstone. For now, Chelsea seem focused on ensuring he adapts physically to the Premier League rather than rushing his progression.
Analyst Verdict
FootballPlace analyst John William says Chelsea’s plan fits their new model perfectly. “I think they’re managing him the right way,” he explains. “Hato’s composure and maturity stand out, but centre-backs need rhythm and resilience. Chelsea are right to build that up slowly rather than throw him in too soon.”
In my view, Hato’s trajectory looks promising. For a 19-year-old defender, being part of a Premier League rotation and learning daily under Maresca is invaluable experience. If Chelsea stick to their plan, the €44m fee could look like a bargain in a few years’ time.
Key Insights
- Jeffrey Bruma insists Chelsea have a long-term plan for Jorrel Hato.
- The 19-year-old has featured in four of eight Premier League games so far.
- Bruma says Chelsea view Hato as a “pillar for the future”.
- The €44m signing was Ajax’s youngest-ever captain before joining the Blues.
- Patience and gradual minutes are seen as key to his development.
What’s Next
Chelsea play tonight in the Champions League against Ajax at Stamford Bridge before they return to Premier League action against Sunderland on 25 October. With injuries in defence, Hato could earn another start — a chance to prove that Maresca’s patient plan is paying off.
👉 Will Chelsea’s cautious approach help Jorrel Hato become their next defensive leader?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 22 Oct 2025 13:05
He lacks pace - its too fast for him, but with Cucu as his mentor I truly believe he's able to succeed
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