Defense has proved to be one of the key watchwords during the summer for the Stamford Bridge side. After the departures of Antonio Rudiger and Andreas Christensen at central defender, they looked for fresh faces. However, the back was also an area to watch. Spain international Azpilicueta has long-term interest from Barcelona, who have already made a flurry of signings – including Christensen. However, Chelsea have now fended off the La Liga giants to tie Azpilicueta to a new contract. The 32-year-old told his club’s official website: “I am very happy to extend my stay at Chelsea, my home. It’s been almost 10 years since I first came and joined the club so I’m really feeling the love and I’m really excited about the new project we have on our hands. “I would like to say thank you to Mr. Todd [Boehly] and Mr. Behdad [Eghbali] which gave me the opportunity to continue my journey at this amazing club and I really look forward to continuing our adventure. “I am a very proud captain and I hope we share many good memories together.” Boehly, Chelsea’s new owner and acting sporting director, added that he is “thrilled” that Azpilicueta can show more of his “exemplary commitment and leadership”.
Report details Boehly’s influence on Azpilicueta’s contract
As for how Chelsea convinced Azpilicueta to stay at Stamford Bridge, AS sheds light on the situation. Boehly has reportedly canceled the deal that former Blues head of transfers Marina Granovskaia had with the player. The pact would allow Azpilicueta to leave this summer, with Barcelona sniffing out a deal. However, as Boehly joined Chelsea, Granovskaia – along with former Blues chairman Bruce Buck and technical director Petr Cech – both left. Boehly then reinstated Azpilicueta as the team’s leader and orchestrated a turnaround in the Spaniard’s thinking.
The Chelsea owner makes a big decision
Boehly has attracted a lot of press in recent days for his decisions at Chelsea. And the press was often negative. Gary Neville has claimed the American seems to have no real plan and compared him to Manchester United owners Glazer and former Red Devils captain Ed Woodward. But Boehly should be commended for stepping in and turning Azpilicueta’s situation around. Chelsea could not afford to lose him this summer as they enter an uncertain new chapter.
Chelsea in pre-season trouble?
Should Chelsea fans be concerned about their start to the campaign after missing out on any transfer targets and a somewhat underwhelming pre-season performance? Indeed, he was at the forefront of two Premier League triumphs, a Champions League win and an FA Cup win – among other silverware – during his time at Chelsea. As Chelsea’s new ownership comes into contact with the club, Azpilicueta is a seasoned professional who knows the club’s values inside and out and can help guide the club. Keeping him is a no-brainer and Boehly should be commended for handling the situation.
