Ah, wonderkids, how we covet them.
I have seen squad sizes of up to 100 at times, every year the loan farm grinds into overdrive and they are all sent across to lesser clubs to ply their trade, in the hope that *insert manager name here* will see their development and give them a chance in the 1st team.
We all do it. Its almost how the game is meant to be played. Hoard them, then sell them and repeat.
Now....IRL Chelsea are doing it. And look how its going for them. I have read several interviews and listened to several podcasts from ex -pros talking about how the size of that squad must be having an effect due to the size of the group who are 'out in the cold' and the pervasive effect on team morale. Lots of opposing voices in a dressing room/whatsapp chat/FIFA circle....pervasive
Do we think this sort of thing is reflected in the game well enough? I initially think it is not, as I am as likely as anyone to acquire wonderkids in their tens and loan them out, hoping to find the next Gavi, etc.
If we do not think the negative side of hoarding IS reflected well enough, how best to implement it?
I would love to hear the thoughts of the community.
PS - Chelsea are not the only club to do this, Fulham and Forest and QPR have all done this in various ways, but Chelsea are probably doing it in a bigger and badder way...