Omari Hutchinson has sealed a return to Ipswich from Chelsea (Image: Getty)
After holding urgent discussions with his former manager, Mauricio Pochettino, about his future, Omari Hutchinson has officially announced his departure from Chelsea. In a reported £22 million transfer, the former Arsenal winger has returned to Premier League newcomers Ipswich.
Hutchinson played a key role in Ipswich’s Championship-winning squad last season. In the second division, the 20-year-old recorded 10 goals and five assists.
After the Championship season ended, he went back to Chelsea and apparently had discussions about his future with Pochettino. Hutchinson had been requested to report to Cobham for the last few weeks of the Premier League season, according to The Athletic.
Since then, Pochettino has left Chelsea, and Enzo Maresca has taken over as manager. Ipswich is expected to provide the Blues £22 million, which will help them in their efforts to stay out of trouble with the PSR.
Hutchinson made the decision in response to his hopes of staying in Ipswich for the upcoming season. “I hope so,” he remarked in May at a ceremony in the town in East Anglia. I’m not sure; we’ll hear from my agency and the management. I’m going to rejoice right now since I’m not sure what to do.”
Hutchinson was acquired by Chelsea from Arsenal in 2022. Numerous reports indicate that the Gunners will be owed a portion of the amount.
Under Ipswich manager Kieran McKenna last season, Hutchinson excelled. Before choosing to stay at Portman Road and assist Ipswich in staying in the Premier League, McKenna was connected to the Chelsea position.
“We’re overjoyed to have Omari return permanently,” the Northern Irishman remarked.
“We all had a great time working with Omari last season, and his growth and development throughout the season is a credit to the hard work he put in,” the staff, teammates, and supporters said.
“That was demonstrated by the effect he had on the team during the season, particularly in the later stages, and he, along with a great number of his teammates, contributed significantly to the Club’s success.”
“We believe Omari is a great player and a valuable member of the Club going forward. He is driven to get better and prove to the Premier League that he is a competitive and successful player.
Hutchinson is the first player signed by Ipswich in the summer transfer window.
