Gary Cahill admits his Chelsea career could be over.
The England defender was left frustrated after being left on the bench for Chelsea's Europa League opener against PAOK Salonika.
He said: “I don't want to jump the gun but as things stand at this time, probably, yes [I might have to leave in January].
“Whatever my future holds, in terms of the club, and the relationship I have with the club and the fans, it will have been a huge part of my footballing life. I've got maximum respect for everybody here.
“I realise that sometimes you have to make tough decisions and football doesn't wait for people.
“Sometimes you have to make those decisions to keep going and progressing.
“First of all the team's doing well which is the most important thing. Having been a big part of things for six years, seven years and played a huge part, not just a squad player, I'm definitely finding it difficult this year to deal with that situation.
“I haven't spoken to the manager [about the situation] yet. I think we will speak soon, just to see where everything is and how the land lies."