Ugochukwu Discusses Atmosphere at Stamford Bridge 

Chelsea’s midfielder Lesley Ugochukwu has explained his decision to complete a switch from the French League 1 to the Premier League in the just concluded summer transfer window, and what the competition is like amidst top transfer signings Moises Caicedo, Enzo Fernandez, and Romeo Lavia.

The 19-year-old who is currently on international duties with France’s Under-21 team was signed by the Blues for €27m from Stade Rennais and on a seven-year contract.

Speaking to Le Parisian on the competition at Chelsea, Ugochukwu said: “It’s the same everywhere, in any team, you are not sure to play. When I arrived at Chelsea, I knew where I was going.

“It’s up to you to prove yourself, to show that you deserve your place. Personally, I have never been afraid of competition. I will learn from very good players like Enzo Fernandez, Moises Caicedo or Romeo Lavia, who is the same age as me. It’s up to me to go and get the most minutes.

“The learning that I have at Chelsea, daily and at weekends, will allow me to strengthen myself and mature in my game. When you are young, you have to play of course but there are trains that don’t pass twice.”

He added on the surprise move to the club: “I thought I would do the whole season with Rennes, but football goes fast. Chelsea had been following me for a while.

“It’s Chelsea! Just look at all the trophies they’ve won and the legends that have passed through. When a club of this stature comes to look for you, it’s very difficult to refuse.

“I was attracted by what they want to do and what they see in me. In relation to my ambitions too, I think it was perfect to leave at that time.

“They say I can become a really great midfielder if I put my all into it and everything goes well. It’s up to me to prove that I can have my place in the long-term. I wanted to take this step.”

“There was never a question of a departure to Strasbourg.

“It came back to my ears, but I was never told to make a choice. The idea was always to do pre-season and if the coach likes what I do, I stay. In my mind it was clear, I wanted to stay at Chelsea. I gave 100 percent to be part of this group,” said Lesley Ugochukwu whilst highlighting his 100% commitment to Chelsea.