Drogba's Future Uncertain

Chelsea manager Luiz Felipe Scolari has opted not to play Didier Drogba the last two matches, which has suggested that he may be on his way out of town.

The striker had no impact in last week's dreadful 3-0 loss to Manchester United at Old Trafford. While it has been hinted by manager Scolari that Drogba may return to the first team for next week's FA Cup match with Ipswich, the Ivorian could be in a new uniform before then.

Scolari has affirmed that if he were made an offer for Drogba, "the club might accept it". The offer would need to be quite high for a striker of Drogba's caliber, yet there may be a market for such a force at the top of the pitch.

Tottenham have expressed an interest at the position and may be a suitable fit. However, a more likely move would be big names in Spain or Italy.

Teams fighting for top position in their respective tables will have a say if Drogba indeed hits the market. Sevilla FC could make a move in an attempt to lock up a Champion’s League spot. Internazionale is another good bet if they intend to be buyers this January.

Inter have already been linked with Andrei Arshavin from Zenit St. Petersburg, but it appears Arsenal will finish a deal with the Russian midfielder by week’s end. There has been speculation that Inter’s president does not intend to sign any new players this winter. If this is indeed the case, a summer transfer for the Chelsea striker may be imminent.

Before Drogba’s return from injury, Anelka was in tremendous form, making him an early favorite for the European Golden Shoe. Since then, he and Drogba have exchanged the lone striker role and have seen time simultaneously, but with limited success.

Scolari has hinted that Drogba may see further time with the first team, but as of now his future remains uncertain. If he does remain with the team through the winter, expect a reduced role to make space for youngsters like Miroslav Stoch and Franco Di Santo to play with the first team.