Chelsea Fringe Player Declares Bold Commitment Amid Surprise Transfer Decision
Chelsea defender Benoît Badiashile has firmly committed his future to the club, expressing deep affection for the team he "adores".
Badiashile joined the Chelsea squad that gathered with Donald Trump to celebrate with a replica Club World Cup trophy on Sunday, though he wasn't included in the matchday roster. The French center-back featured in two matches during Chelsea's victorious campaign before being excluded from selection from the round of 16 stage.
Remarkably, this limited participation was viewed as progress compared to his earlier contributions. Throughout the latter half of the 2024–25 domestic season, Badiashile managed only a single Premier League outing. A hamstring problem disrupted the initial period of his absence, while Enzo Maresca's tactical choices subsequently kept the 24-year-old confined to substitute duties.
Even with fewer top-division starts than departing João Félix, Badiashile remains committed to his west London future. "Absolutely, I'll remain at Chelsea for the upcoming season," he confirmed to Foot Mercato following the global success.
"The organization, the manager, and the entire staff provide me with tremendous support and faith. I'm determined to repay their trust through my performances. I adore this club, this city, and these fans."
"This represents an amazing conclusion to our campaign. I feel delighted and honored to create history alongside this institution," Badiashile expressed enthusiastically. "I'm hopeful of achieving even greater milestones with this exceptional club."
Before resuming his demanding routine of bench duties, Badiashile will enjoy a three-week vacation with his Chelsea colleagues. "The campaigns are extremely lengthy for players like us," he acknowledged. "It becomes challenging due to accumulated exhaustion, both physically and mentally. However, this comes with our profession. The break is certainly appreciated and will help us refresh and return motivated for the next campaign."
Upon Badiashile's return, positional competition will continue intensely. Levi Colwill, Trevoh Chalobah and Tosin Adarabioyo have emerged as Maresca's recent preferences, while additional competition comes from Mamadou Sarr, Aarón Anselmino and Wesley Fofana.
Similar to his fellow Frenchman, Fofana has declared his intention to remain this summer. With Renato Veiga and Axel Disasi returning from their loan arrangements, Maresca possesses nine center-back options. Multiple players from this extensive group are likely to seek moves in the upcoming transfer period.