Chelsea defender Ben Chilwell has completed a late Deadline Day move to French club Strasbourg.
Chilwell makes shock move to Strasbourg
Ben Chilwell, a Chelsea hero in the UCL, has made a surprise switch to Strasbourg on deadline day. The left-back joined the Blues in 2020, had his best days under Thomas Tuchel, and was an important player in winning the UCL in 2021.
Then the injuries started to pile up, competition ramped up, and the once-stalwart left back for Chelsea never looked the same. Last season, he only made a single appearance for the Blues.
Then, he went on loan to Crystal Palace. The defender found his touch he seemed to have lost and was part of their FA Cup triumph as well. Now, it looks as though Chelsea’s patience might be up. The west London club seem to have waved goodbye to him without much resistance.
Did Chelsea made a mistake?
Strasbourg wasted no time grabbing the chance, announcing the signing late Monday night. The deal ties Chilwell to the French side for two years. This is not just any signing, it’s another example of BlueCo, the group owning both Chelsea and Strasbourg, shifting players between their projects.
On paper, Chilwell brings the Ligue 1 club a much-needed boost. He has PL experience, UCL-winning experience, and leadership in a young squad under English coach Liam Rosenior. But, the thing is while Strasbourg are betting on his revival, Chelsea fans are left scratching their heads.
Author’s Opinion:
Ben Chilwell’s move feels like a risk that benefits the French side Strasbourg far more than the west London side. If he stays fit, the Ligue 1 club may have pulled off the steal of the summer. For the Blues, it looks like another case of cutting ties without a clear plan.
As featured on Chelseanews.com
